>>The state and local deduction only gains importance, IF the standard deduction remains the same. Reports are that the standard deduction for a couple is going up to $24,000/yr.<<
Only 18% of all taxpayers itemize.
They need to bring some itemization in addition to the standard deduction. It used to be Mortgage Interest and charitable contributions lowered AGI (but I admit that was a LONG time ago).
It's actually twice that overall, and higher than 36% in some states. Of course the higher your income the more likely you are to itemize.
But regardless of whether it's 18% or 36%, I'm one who does and based on what's being discussed my taxes are headed up.