Statement from Rachel Smith, President of Washington Roundtable, in response to Representative Shaun Scott’s New Proposal to Raise Taxes:
“Washington employers share the goal of building a strong, healthy future for our state: one where families can afford to live, businesses can grow, and communities thrive. But the proposal introduced today appears to be the ‘hard launch’ of yet another legislative session built on the same budget playbook as last year – a year in which Washington saw the largest tax increase in state history, all against the backdrop of small businesses struggling or failing, and persistent economic uncertainty at the federal level.
That approach simply isn’t working for Washingtonians.
Families across our state are worried about their personal financial situations. They understand that when taxes go up for employers, those costs ultimately get passed on, just like tariffs. Washington is already one of the least affordable states in the nation – ranking 46th in affordability – and we cannot afford policies that make living, working, or running a business here even harder.
Instead of repeating a cycle that isn’t working – tax first, plan later, and never bother to do the math on the impact – we should hit reset. That means working with state leaders on real solutions that curb rising costs, focus on affordability, and deliver results people can see and feel in their communities. It means managing spending, avoiding budget maneuvers that kick the can, and prioritizing reforms that make government work better, not just get bigger.
The Washington Roundtable stands ready to collaborate on a path forward: one that strengthens our economy, protects job opportunities, and ensures every Washingtonian can build a secure future.” — Rachel Smith, president, Washington Roundtable
###
Media Contact: Sara Garrettson, sara@waroundtable.com