That's why the NRST includes what is called the Family Consumption Allowance, which is essentially the personal exemption/standard deduction of the income tax translated into sales tax terms. Everyone is eligible for it, and it actually makes the tax progressive, rather than regressive, based on the level of consumption.
Again, I can see both sides of the issue.
If I had my druthers, the first way I would like to see taxes fairly dealt with is to get rid of most government bureaucracy.....but alas, I'm not in charge.