Max Page, President of the Massachusetts Teachers Association, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Fair Share Amendment, its impact on public education funding and the ongoing fight for equitable taxation. Page shared insights on the amendment's success, its benefits for education and transportation and plans to ensure continued funding for public services.
Passed in 2022, the Fair Share Amendment introduced a 4 percent tax on income over $1 million. It generates $3 billion annually for education and transportation. Page explained that this victory came after multiple failed attempts to introduce progressive taxation in Massachusetts. The amendment's success was attributed to its targeted approach, taxing only the wealthiest 0.7 percent of taxpayers while dedicating funds to public services voters care about. Despite initial skepticism, the amendment has enabled significant educational investments, including free community college, universal school meals and increased funding for early education and childcare.
Despite the amendment's success, Page emphasized that $3 billion is not enough to address all of Massachusetts' educational needs. He highlighted ongoing efforts to introduce a Corporate Fair Share tax and explore a wealth tax to generate additional revenue. Page stressed the importance of continued progressive taxation, noting that even with the new tax, the number of millionaires in Massachusetts has increased. He argued that states with high concentrations of wealth, regardless of political leanings, should consider similar measures to support public education and essential services.
Next, Page discussed the transformation of the Massachusetts Teachers Association into a more activist organization, focusing on strengthening local unions and democratizing bargaining processes. This shift has led to more militant actions, including strikes for fair pay and benefits, particularly for lower-paid education support professionals. Page emphasized the importance of addressing workplace conditions and compensation to attract and retain educators, noting the significant pay gap between teachers and professionals with similar education levels in Massachusetts.
Listen to the full episode to hear more about Massachusetts' innovative approach to education funding and the ongoing fight for equitable taxation.