Initiative 2117 could save Washington over $2 billion by ditching the costly cap-and-tax scheme—finally cutting the state’s habit of throwing money at dubious projects.
Uncapping the Waste: A Victory for Washington's Wallet
Repealing Washington’s cap-and-tax scheme through Initiative 2117 would save over $2 billion and cut unnecessary government spending, including the elimination of over 300 state employee positions tied to the tax’s administration – that’s according to a new report from the Washington Policy Center. The Washington State Office of Financial Management (OFM) highlights that the repeal would reduce revenue from carbon auctions by $3.8 billion and cut expenditures by $1.7 billion by 2029. The current tax funds projects that are often criticized for being inefficient or wasteful, such as electric ferry systems and high-speed rail planning, which have not demonstrated clear benefits. Moreover, some programs, like salmon recovery and wildfire prevention, receive minimal funding compared to other less impactful projects. As anyone living in Central and Eastern Washington can attest, our state has a history of poorly managing climate-related spending, with projects frequently failing to meet their goals. Repealing the cap-and-tax scheme would halt these questionable expenditures and encourage more responsible and effective use of the state’s resources. Read more at the Washington Policy Center.
WA Democrat Tiptoes Through Red District: Glusenkamp Perez Dodges Kamala Harris Endorsement for Political Survival
Marie Glusenkamp Perez, a rather far-left Democrat representing the relatively red district of WA-03, has chosen not to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for the presidency. Despite being pressed by Fox News during a recent interview, she did not comment on Harris’s role as the “border czar” or her potential candidacy. Her silence is obviously a strategic move to maintain a moderate image in her district, given many voters have voiced dissatisfaction with the Biden-Harris administration. Glusenkamp Perez’s is district is a toss-up, she faces a strong challenge from Republican candidates Joe Kent and Leslie LeWallen. Read more at KTTH.com.
Seattle's Restaurant Industry Braces for Impact: Minimum Wage Hike to Serve Up Financial Chaos
Seattle’s restaurant industry is on edge as a significant minimum wage increase looms, eliminating the ability to offset wages with tips and benefits. This change, effective in 2025, is expected to raise the minimum wage above $20 per hour, adding about $45,000 in monthly expenses for some restaurants. The situation is dire, with potential layoffs, menu price hikes, and the shift from hourly to salaried positions being considered as possible solutions. Industry figures like Ethan Stowell and Jeremy McLachlan highlight the challenges, noting that increased costs will likely deter customers, leading to reduced foot traffic and further financial strain. The Seattle City Council is considering legislation to maintain the tip credit, which might offer some relief. However, powerful figures like Democrat donor Nick Hanauer, who has a history of advocating for high wages while paying his employees low wages, argue that businesses have had enough time to adjust. As Seattle’s downtown struggles with low foot traffic and high unemployment, the restaurant industry is facing an uncertain future, with many owners questioning how they will survive the impending financial burden. Read more at KTTH.com.
Washington’s 2024 Primary Election: Voting Begins, Ballots Due by August 6
Voting for Washington’s 2024 primary election is underway. Voters must return ballots to drop boxes or voting centers by 8 p.m. on August 6. Mailed ballots need to be postmarked by August 6, and the USPS recommends mailing them a week prior. It’s worth noting – all 39 counties have races on their ballots, with 654 offices and 94 local measures up for decision. Voters can check ballot status and drop box locations online!
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