OLYMPIA — Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, released the following statement after the Legislature gave final approval to Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6346, legislation establishing a new state income tax on individuals earning more than $1 million annually.
“I strongly condemn the passage of this income tax. It’s being marketed as a ‘millionaire’s tax,’ but if that were truly the case, the majority would have accepted the amendment that permanently prohibits expanding it to everyone else. They refused — and that tells you everything you need to know.
“Washington voters and courts have rejected an income tax at least 10 different times. I believe this tax will face the same constitutional challenges because it conflicts with long-standing precedent and the will of the voters.
“This policy is bad for Washington and bad for the Tri-Cities. Taxes like this rarely stay limited to the group they start with. Over time, they creep down the income ladder, eventually reaching middle-income families and everyday workers.
“We’re already seeing the warning signs. This new tax relies on a volatile revenue stream while simultaneously pushing innovators, investors, and job creators to other states. When those individuals and businesses leave, they take jobs and opportunities with them.
“In the Tri-Cities, we are working to grow industries that will shape the future — advanced nuclear energy, agriculture innovation, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies. We have major investments on the horizon, including Atlas Agro’s proposed green fertilizer facility and continued growth in our national laboratory and energy sectors.
“Policies like this send the wrong signal. Instead of encouraging investment in Washington, we’re telling entrepreneurs and innovators they may be better off building the future somewhere else. I want those jobs and those opportunities here in Washington, not driven out by policies that make our state less competitive.”
The Senate originally passed the bill on Feb. 16, 27–22. The House approved the measure on March 9 on a 51–46 vote. And the Senate concurred with the House amendments on March 11, by a vote of 27-21. The bill now heads to the governor’s desk for signature.
The 2026 legislative session is scheduled to conclude today, Thursday, March 12.
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