Inside: Upcoming tax increase discussions and major tech layoffs spell out a rough period for Seattle ahead.
Friend,
Washington Policy Center continues its month of gratitude by reflecting on the people and ideas that drive our mission forward. Throughout the month of November, our policy experts will offer you a closer look at the work, passion, and purpose behind what we do.
Today, we’re pleased to share a message from Pam Lewison, Director of WPC’s Center for Agriculture.
P.S. Stay tuned as we continue publishing notes from our team in the weeks ahead. Your support is changing lives, and we can’t wait to share more.
Democrats in Olympia Are About to Destroy Small Businesses in Washington With a 9.9% Income Tax
Olympia is floating a 9.9% income tax on Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) over $1 million that would hit many small businesses, forcing owners to either raise prices or cut hours and jobs. It comes right after SB 5814’s new tax on services (6.5% plus local add-ons up to 10.5%), which already blindsided roughly 90,000 firms, from freelancers to mom-and-pop shops. With voters having rejected an income tax ten times and no clear rules on deductions, this plan echoes the worst of the B&O tax increases and risks wiping out thin-margin businesses or driving them out of Washington.
John Bernard walks through the steps to actually make city government accountable and effective.
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Why “Eco-Friendly” Isn’t Always as Clear as Ice By Todd Myers
As it turns out, just because something is labelled "Eco-Friendly" doesn't mean there aren't environmental tradeoffs. READ MORE
Could the Latest Round of Layoffs Be Big Tech’s “Will the Last Person Leaving Seattle - Turn Out the Lights” Moment? By Mark Harmsworth
Amazon, Microsoft, and more tech layoffs are fueling a potential death spiral of Seattle's innovation sector. READ MORE
Potato Chips, Strawberry Milk, and the Case for Food Ag-vocacy By Pam Lewison
When nearly half of Lays consumers don't realize chips are made from potatoes, it's time to put an emphasis on agricultural education. READ MORE
WILL YOU MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD FOR WASHINGTON KIDS?
Federal Tax Credits Would Give Washington Kids Historic Opportunities, But Only If WA Opts In
Join us in sending a message to Governor Ferguson to allow Washington to participate in the federal program that helps students to take advantage of education scholarships for private or public opportunities. It only takes two minutes, take action here!
FEATURED EVENTS
What are the key issues for Washington state surrounding health care costs, access and patient care – and how can we solve them? Join Washington Policy Center and former 4 News Now anchor, Aaron Luma, for this FREE panel discussion on the future of health care in Washington. Featured speakers will address topics including state policy (including taxes), price caps and Medicaid underpayment – as well as the pros and cons of universal taxpayer-financed care and more.
By embracing free-market principles in our research and initiatives, WPC provides the knowledge and tools you need to actively shape positive outcomes in our state. Together, let's pave the way towards a prosperous future for all Washingtonians.
PHOTO: After we dropped off the first 27,000 signatures to the Governor's office during the last legislative session, another 10,000 or so came in, so I took my daughters to the Capitol Building to help deliver the next batch and teach them the importance of making your voices heard. -- David Boze
