Income Tax Repeal Gains Momentum + Washington Gas Tax Increases Again

Washington's income tax repeal effort reached a major milestone as supporters delivered thousands of petition signatures to the Secretary of State in hopes of placing the repeal on the November ballot. Organizers say they submitted well above the minimum number of signatures required after weeks of statewide signature gathering. The episode also examines Washington's automatic gas tax increase that took effect July 1. Drivers are now paying one of the highest state gas taxes in America, while critics argue taxpayers continue paying more despite concerns over road quality and transportation spending. Washington's WA Cares long-term care program also officially began paying benefits. Governor Bob Ferguson celebrated the launch of the payroll-tax-funded program, while critics questioned whether a mandatory payroll tax is the best way to finance long-term care. Finally, the Washington Supreme Court race continues to draw attention as candidate Kareem Merchant discusses the court's capital gains tax decision and why he believes the Quinn ruling expanded the Legislature's taxing authority. The outcome of this year's Supreme Court races could become increasingly important as Washington's new income tax faces an expected constitutional challenge. In this episode: • Income tax repeal petitions submitted • Washington gas tax increases July 1 • WA Cares begins paying benefits • Washington Supreme Court race and capital gains tax debate If you enjoy independent reporting on Washington politics, taxes, government accountability, transportation, and public policy, subscribe for daily coverage from The Center Square's Washington In Focus Daily.