I-2109 would repeal the tax on capital-gains income approved by the Legislature’s majority Democrats in 2021
Sen. Lynda Wilson, R-Vancouver and budget leader for the state Senate’s Republican caucus, made this statement Tuesday (Jan. 23) after Initiative 2109 was certified by the secretary of state.
I-2109 would repeal the tax on capital-gains income approved by the Legislature’s majority Democrats in 2021; unless enacted by lawmakers during their 2024 session, it will go on the November general election ballot.
“Let’s remember how the public was literally barred from the Capitol by a metal fence when the capital-gains tax was put in place during the lockdown session of 2021. Republicans couldn’t stop the tax, and the Democrats said no when we tried to get it in front of the people through a referendum.
“If our colleagues in the majority follow the state constitution, which puts a very high priority on legislative consideration of initiatives, they will at least allow a committee hearing on this measure. Then the people would have an opportunity to be heard that was denied to them three years ago. But let’s be real – I-2109 is now on a path to the ballot, and we have seen time and time again over the past 90 years how the voters of Washington feel about income taxes.
“Having been immersed in the state budget since before the capital-gains tax was adopted, I can also say it doesn’t pay for anything that can’t be funded with other revenue. Government can get along just fine without it, and let the people keep more of their own money.”
Sponsors of I-2109 had turned in more than 446,000 signatures.
Also read:
- Fiscal fallout: $375 million bond debt indirectly funding operating budget
Shifting $375 million from a loan fund impacts local infrastructure as Washington state covers operating costs with bond debt, prompting concern among officials and advocacy groups. - Lawsuit aims to block new eligibility requirements for WA sheriffs
Four sheriffs are suing over a state law that sets new eligibility rules, arguing it undermines voter authority by allowing removal for certification issues. - Opinion: The growing gap between public voice and political power
Todd Myers describes how large-scale protest and sign-ins often fail to sway state leaders, and argues authentic influence is most likely found through local action. - City of Battle Ground seeks applicants for Salary Commission vacancy
Battle Ground seeks a resident to join its independent Salary Commission, which reviews compensation and health benefits for local elected officials through 2027. - Opinion: Who is winning the race for affordable power?
Hydroelectric power keeps Washington competitive, but new laws and carbon pricing are driving up electricity costs for residents each year. - Vancouver Fire Department assists with Columbia River Marina fire response
Vancouver Fire Department joined Clark-Cowlitz and Scappoose crews to help fight a vessel and dock fire at Goble Marina, assisting in river operations where one boat sank and another was partially submerged. - White House govt. Funding request for 2027 cuts $73 billion
President Trump’s budget seeks to boost defense funding while cutting $73 billion from agencies like the EPA, NASA, and Agriculture, prompting sharp criticism from Democratic leaders.
