Opinion: Last-minute policy gifts

Jason Mercier of the Washington Policy Center has some fun with thoughts for the upcoming 2023 legislative session

Jason Mercier
Washington Policy Center

The holidays and the 2023 legislative session are fast approaching. If you’re still looking for last-minute policy presents for friends, family and lawmakers, I have a few recommendations of the hottest buys of the season:

Income tax mystery board game. Do you have what it takes to solve the greatest tax caper of the 21st Century? If yes, you’ll love Washington versus the World – Capital Gains Income Tax Edition. You get to play as a state Supreme Court Justice and weigh the evidence from the IRS, 49 states and other countries in the world against the claims of income tax advocates that want you to decide Washingtonians don’t own their income. Rule wisely.
Checks and balances action figure. Spring into action with the latest superhero for good governance with emergency powers reform. Help fight the arbitrary rule of one behind closed doors and empower the legislative branch to have a seat at the table during long-lasting emergencies.
Fiscal discipline plush doll. Cuddle up with a healthy balance sheet by keeping spending in check, maintaining strong reserves, and avoiding tax increases. For extra fun, add on the rarely used accessory of broad-based tax relief.
Title only bill etch-a-sketch. Enjoy hours of fun while filing in the details of blank bills before public hearings with legislative transparency reforms. Now available in color with a robust remote testimony setting.
Tax transparency video game. Rated for all ages, this highly sought-after video game provides the player with an open-world concept to explore which taxing districts they live in and what their potential tax liability is. The only way to lose is not to play.
1000-piece emergency clause reform puzzle. As you carefully put together the pieces, the mosaic of our constitutional right of referendum will come into clear focus with this beautiful, yet simple, emergency clause reform puzzle.

I personally guarantee that each of these policy gifts will hit the mark and not disappoint. Act now to avoid the look of disappointed faces from your loved ones. Good luck with the policy shopping and happy holidays!

Jason Mercier is the director of the Center for Government Reform at the Washington Policy Center.