Washington State Standard

Democrats want to tax personal income over $1 million. Gov. Bob Ferguson says lawmakers’ initial plan doesn’t offer enough tax relief for lower earners and small businesses.

The bill drops it to 0.05%, and the state would join Utah with the toughest standard in the nation. It still needs House approval.

The state legislation would allow cities and counties to tax the rentals to fund affordable housing.

Voters decided this month to allow payroll taxes collected for Washington’s new long-term care program to be invested in the stock market.

Voters were giving the go-ahead Tuesday for the state to make stock market investments with payroll taxes collected for Washington’s new long-term care program.

Voters will decide on the constitutional amendment this November. Supporters say investing the tax collected for WA Cares will help sustain it. Others worry about the risk.

A more than $350 million deficit looms in 2029 without changes to either raise more tax revenue or lower costs.

Democrats in both chambers pushed the proposal, which local governments want to see. Gov. Bob Ferguson said it was the right move to set it aside.

Two Islamic celebrations, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, will be added to Washington’s list of unpaid state holidays, under a bill signed into law on Tuesday.

The Washington governor drew fire from progressives at a rally in support of taxing the wealthy and businesses.