Former Governor Jay Inslee Endorses Washington's 'Millionaires Tax' Amid Legal and Ballot Challenges
Former Washington Governor Jay Inslee has endorsed the 'millionaires tax,' a measure that imposes a 9.9% tax on incomes over $1 million. This tax, which passed earlier this year, is expected to generate approximately $3 billion annually, with funds allocated to education, tax breaks for low-income families, and sales tax reductions on hygiene products and diapers. Inslee, a Democrat, is the only living former governor to fully support the tax, which faces a ballot recall in November and a lawsuit challenging its constitutionality. Former governors Christine Gregoire and Gary Locke have expressed skepticism, questioning the state's tax-and-spend priorities. The tax is set to take effect in 2029, but its future is uncertain due to the upcoming voter decision and legal challenges.