History

Washington is vying for jobs and new investment in an intensely competitive, global marketplace where the bar is raised nearly every day by other states and nations. To stay competitive, it is essential that state lawmakers make the business climate improvements necessary to position Washington, and companies that operate here, for success in the global economy.  Recognizing this, the Roundtable has been highly engaged in efforts to:

• Improve statewide transportation infrastructure.
• Streamline processes for locating business operations and investing in Washington.
• Protect and expand the ability of employers based here to compete in the international marketplace.

State policy priority for 2008:

Enact a state transportation planning and investment strategy that reforms governance in the Central Puget Sound region and allows for innovative financing.
Nearly a decade ago the Blue Ribbon Commission on Transportation estimated that Washington’s crumbling transportation infrastructure drains $2 billion from the state economy each year. Progress has been made; however, no clear plan or financing structure exists to address the enormous backlog of projects that remains. Lawmakers must develop a transportation planning and investment strategy that reforms regional governance and allows for innovative financing options, such as public-private partnerships. The Roundtable urges approval of legislation based on the recommendations put forward by the Regional Transportation Commission.

Do not enact legislation that makes it more difficult for Washington’s employers to compete.
Independent studies consistently conclude that Washington is an expensive place to do business relative to other states and nations. It is critical that policymakers do not exacerbate this problem. The Roundtable opposes legislation that will increase the cost of doing business or make Washington state less attractive to current and prospective employers. For example, any proposal that limits employer communication on labor issues would send a chilling message to employers. An equitable balance must exist between employer and labor interests if there is any hope of growing the job base in our state.