OLYMPIA — A controversial proposal known as the Millionaires Tax has passed the Washington State Senate and now heads to the House.
Washington Senate Bill 6346 would place a 9.9 percent tax on income above one million dollars, affecting fewer than one percent of Washington households. Supporters, including Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen, say the measure would raise an estimated 3-point-7 billion dollars a year for schools, health care, child care and other services, while also cutting taxes for small businesses and low-income families.
Republicans argue the bill creates an unconstitutional income tax. They also point to the rejection of a proposed amendment that would have permanently limited the tax strictly to millionaires, saying its failure leaves the door open for future expansion. GOP lawmakers further object to language in the bill that would block a public referendum.
The measure passed on a 27 to 22 vote and now moves to the House for consideration.