As important a matter as reforming the tax system is, I feel I must share my thoughts on the issue. Sure the sales tax on food is regressive. But the sales tax itself is regressive as a means of generating income for the state. The future of the state is the responsibility of all Tennesseans. The tax on food is the only means some have to contribute to its future.
Any time there are 'targeted' tax cuts, they are by definition unfair.
It is not as 'shiny' as a state lottery. This is why I would oppose a state income tax. Like it or not, the income tax would be the best means for state income. It isn't regressive like the sales tax scheme. The proposed change in the excise tax has problems as well.