Reps. Kevin Waters and David Stuebe are condemning House Democrats’ decision to approve Senate Bill 6346, legislation that creates a new state income tax despite repeated opposition from Washington voters.
The measure passed following an intense floor fight that lasted more than 24 hours, as House Republicans worked through the night to slow the bill and push for amendments they said would better protect taxpayers. Eight Democrats joined all Republicans in voting against the proposal.
Republican lawmakers argued that while Democrats promoted the proposal as targeted and beneficial, the revenue it generates will ultimately flow into the state’s general fund without meaningful reforms to Washington’s regressive tax structure.
“This was a long and serious debate because the stakes are incredibly high,” said Waters, R-Stevenson. “We fought for more than 24 hours because families deserve a fair shot and a tax system that truly works for everyone. This bill doesn’t fix what’s broken. It sends more money into the general fund without guaranteeing real tax reform or meaningful relief for working people.”
The lawmakers said the legislation relies heavily on promises about future spending rather than firm protections for taxpayers.
“There was a lot of talk about intent, but very few concrete guarantees,” said Stuebe, R-Washougal. “Our caucus offered amendments that would have protected residents, increased accountability, and improved the policy. Those ideas were rejected. That’s deeply frustrating when you’re talking about creating an entirely new tax.”
The 17th District lawmakers also warned that the policy could expand beyond its initial scope and eventually affect far more Washingtonians than advertised.
“History shows once government creates a new tax stream, it rarely stays limited,” said Waters. “Today it’s labeled one thing, but down the road it can easily grow into an income tax that touches every family. That’s a serious concern we continue to hear from the people we represent.”
The bill also places too much emphasis on generating new revenue rather than improving budget discipline, the lawmakers noted.
“Washington doesn’t have a revenue problem. It has a results problem,” said Stuebe. “State government needs to learn to live within its means and stop spending other people’s money without stronger accountability. Taxpayers expect us to be responsible stewards, especially during an affordability crisis.”
Both lawmakers said the legislation advanced before key policy and fiscal concerns were adequately addressed.
“This proposal simply wasn’t ready,” said Stuebe.
“When you’re considering a policy shift this significant, you owe it to the public to slow down, get it right, and ensure the outcome truly benefits the people of our state,” concluded Waters.
The lawmakers said they will continue advocating for policies that prioritize affordability, responsible budgeting, and sustainable tax reform that does not place additional burdens on working families.
Because it was changed in the House, the bill now heads back to the Senate for reapproval. The governor has indicated he will sign it in its current form.
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Washington State House Republicans