KUOW

Some experts — and Washington lawmakers themselves — think the state’s problems are starting to outgrow the Legislature's limited schedule.

The 9.9% tax on incomes over $1 million starts in 2029, funding child care subsidies, tax breaks for low-income families and sales tax breaks, and supporting the general fund.

Lawmakers have set aside $19 million to fill in the federal government's cuts to Medicaid.

The Washington Legislature wrapped up the 2026 session last week. Updates to the budget included cuts to childcare subsidies and a one-time pull from the state's rainy day fund.

Democrats and Republicans argued over whether spending and taxing plans will make Washington more affordable. Lawmakers will have to wrangle with a forecast deficit next year.

It would be the state's first-ever income tax. The Senate's final approval came after a historic 25-hour debate in the House.

In a 51 to 46 vote with four Democrats dissenting, the bill now has a clear path to the governor’s desk. If signed into law, it would become the first income tax for the state of Washington.

Gov. Ferguson had previously wavered on his support in the bill’s earlier form, saying the legislation did not include enough to support working families as written.

The ban would apply to federal, state, and local law enforcement officers interacting with the public or making arrests. It will head to the governor’s desk if the Senate approves final changes.

Both House and Senate versions include heavy cuts to childcare, education and health care.