Washington Supreme Court Blocks Referendum on Millionaires’ Tax, Impacting Voter Power
The Washington State Supreme Court has unanimously blocked a referendum on the state's new millionaires' tax, which imposes a 9.9% tax on households earning over one million dollars. The court ruled that the tax is essential for state government support, thus exempting it from a public vote. Opponents, led by Brian Heywood of Let's Go Washington, argue that this decision strips voters of their power to challenge taxes, a right they believe was protected by the state's founders. Former Attorney General Rob McKenna, who is challenging the tax's constitutionality, contends that it could pave the way for broader income taxes across the state. Meanwhile, Attorney General Nick Brown and Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen support the tax, citing its role in addressing funding shortages and tax system inequities. 
