Washington Voters Reject Repeal of High-Earners Income Tax

Washington voters backed the state's new high-earners income tax in Tuesday's election, rejecting Initiative 645, which sought to repeal the levy. Initial results show 58% of voters opposed the repeal, with particularly strong margins in King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties.

Governor Bob Ferguson signed the tax into law on March 30, establishing a 9.9% levy on annual household income exceeding $1 million. The tax is projected to generate between $3 billion and $4 billion annually for the state operating budget, with collections scheduled to begin in 2029 based on 2028 income.

Supporters of the measure, including Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen, argued the tax corrects a regressive system that burdens lower-income families. Opponents, led by Steve Gordon and funded by Brian Heywood, warned the tax would erode the state's business advantage and potentially expand to lower income brackets.

Despite the electoral victory for the tax, the law faces a pending constitutional challenge in Klickitat County Superior Court. Legal experts expect the final decision on the levy's validity to rest with the state Supreme Court.