Massachusetts Teachers Give Income Tax Cut an A+
New polling by the Mass Opportunity Alliance shows that Massachusetts teachers overwhelmingly support a proposed law that would lower the state income tax from 5% to 4%. Teachers believe such a policy would strengthen both their profession and the state’s long-term competitiveness.
Nearly 80% of surveyed teachers support lowering the income tax rate. About the same percent say a tax cut would directly benefit teachers.
That support reflects real concerns about affordability and retention that have been building for years, with almost 86% of teachers saying they are concerned about the overall cost of living in Massachusetts
More than six in ten teachers say the current level of state taxes has made them consider leaving Massachusetts to work elsewhere. The same share say a lower income tax would make them more likely to stay.
At a time when schools across the country are struggling to recruit and retain educators, that kind of signal matters. Teachers are clear about what could help reverse the trend, with 87% saying a lower income tax would make Massachusetts a more attractive place for future teachers.
The state teachers union has been one of the most vocal opponents of tax relief. As this data shows, that position does not necessarily reflect the views of the teachers themselves.
Previous polling has shown that roughly three in four Massachusetts voters support lowering the income tax, with strong backing across income levels and party lines. Among union households, support is even higher. Small business owners are seeing the same potential, with a majority saying a tax cut would support economic growth and increased business activity.
The message is consistent. Tax relief is not just popular, it is seen as part of the solution to some of the state’s most pressing challenges.
For teachers, that means more take-home pay, greater financial stability, and a stronger incentive to remain in the classroom. For Massachusetts, it could mean a more competitive environment for attracting and retaining the talent.
*This survey of 100 teachers in Massachusetts, conducted online from March 27 to April 6 by research firm Big Village for MOA, was performed at a 95% confidence level.
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