“Millionaires' Tax” DEBUNKED

After 24 hours of nonstop debate, House Democrats bypassed the state constitution and passed a state income tax, paving the way for a Washington IRS.

Supporters claim the bill’s aim is to tax the rich. Yet Democrats rejected numerous Republican amendments that would have guaranteed low- and middle-income earners never pay it. Democrats also insist the tax is popular – but blocked every effort to let the people decide the issue directly.

In the hours and days that followed, several local businesses and entrepreneurs announced plans to leave Washington, citing the cumulative impact of taxes and regulations.

00:00 - Rep. April Connors, R-Kennewick
00:40 - Rep. Jeremie Dufault, R-Selah
01:01 - Rep. Peter Abbarno, R-Chehalis
01:33 - Rep. Travis Couture, R-Allyn
01:43 - Rep. Deb Manjarrez, R-Wapato
02:11 - Rep. Matt Marshall, R-Eatonville
02:27 - Rep. Mark Klicker, R-Walla Walla
02:42 - Rep. Gloria Mendoza, R-Grandview
03:03 - Rep. Suzanne Schmidt, R-Spokane Valley
03:41 - Rep. Drew Stokesbary, R-Auburn