With Wednesday’s updated state revenue forecast projecting a surge of $1.1 billion in unexpected new revenue, House Republican budget lead, Rep. Drew Stokesbary, has introduced a bill to provide $1 billion in tax relief for Washington’s working families. All 40 members of the House Republican Caucus have signed on to the measure.

“Despite record revenues and voters repeatedly rejecting higher taxes, the majority party has increased taxes by billions of dollars,” said Stokesbary, R-Auburn. “Last year, they raised taxes on housing, utilities and transportation, and the first bill the governor signed into law this session was yet another tax increase – this time on health care and other essential services. Washingtonians deserve better. With today’s revenue forecast update, our state now has a $2.4 billion budget surplus. Instead of spending this record surplus on more bureaucracy, we should deliver immediate tax relief for working families across the state.”

House Bill 2946 would:

• Uphold voters’ demand for $30 car tabs, while ensuring stable funding for roads and transit.

• Eliminate the sales tax on prepared food items sold at grocery stores.

• Eliminate the sales tax on personal necessities like feminine hygiene products, breast pumps, and diapers.

“House Republicans are intent on delivering $30 car tabs this session,” Stokesbary added. “Unfortunately, the majority party has not shown any willingness to uphold the clear will of the voters. House Bill 2946 provides a path forward to implement $30 car tabs without compromising transportation projects, while also offering meaningful sales tax relief on food and many personal necessities. I’m proud to be united with my House Republican colleagues in working to make life more affordable for all Washingtonians.”

The 2020 session is scheduled to adjourn March 12.