As we near the closing weeks of session, the anticipation of the pending budget decisions is building. The days have gotten longer, the discussions more difficult, and the need to embrace our core values has become ever-more critical. The decisions made in the next 30 days are of tremendous importance. As a community we must stay engaged, vocal, and involved in our governance!
The Budget is Coming
Following the recent revenue forecast, the new budget deficit number is now settling in at approximately $5.4 billion. Organizations and individuals across the state are dreading the impacts of this dismal situation. The legislature is stuck on an all-cuts budget approach that will shape the spirit and values of our State for years to come. If we continue to cut already decimated vital public programs, we will face the harsh reality that some of our most vulnerable citizens will turn to far more expensive alternatives. The cost of a typical emergency room visit costs significantly more than providing basic health insurance to a low-income adult. Cutting family planning, prescription drug benefits, long-term care hours, early learning, higher education, environmental protection and the like will cost Washington State far more in the long-run.
With courage, we have options. We can do far more for our citizens and create a fairer, stronger, and more sustainable Washington if we simply consider reasonable revenue options. We must take steps to re-examine our revenue sources and make prudent and responsible changes that will give future generations the ability to realize their fullest potential. During my campaign, I carried this message across our district talking to thousands of constituents along the way. My first floor address was about the need for progressive revenue reform. I have introduced a bill, HB 2022, which strikes at the heart of just one of the nearly 600 tax preferences. Just recently, I was published in The Olympian where I call for the need to examine tax preferences, tax exemptions, and tax loopholes that cost billions of dollars to vital public services.
Not all of these exemptions are bad. Some of these exemptions are quite progressive. What we can all agree on is that not examining them is irresponsible. Tax breaks for cosmetic surgery, private planes, out-of-state coal, out-of-state banks, and hundreds more need to be placed in full public view so legislators and citizens can make meaningful tradeoffs. I am attaching a link to the almost 600 exemptions so you can start to make your own judgments.
Sadly, this list continues to grow. Even in these tough economic times, more exemptions have been added and more are being proposed this session. Now is the time for action, before cuts completely decimate the prosperity and future of our State. We must educate ourselves of the reality of tax exemptions and carry that knowledge to our families, friends, and neighbors. My hope is that as the reality of these cuts sets in, more citizens will have conversations about the potential of our State. About the good things that government can provide, about the need to create a fair and equitable tax system. Please ask you coworkers and neighbors to engage in this issue!
I can make no immediate promises about how this budget will turn out. What I can assure you is that no society has ever cut their way to prosperity and success. Thankfully, there are passionate advocates fighting every day for a rational approach to this budget. I will keep sharing the values of our district with my colleagues. Your voice is my responsibility – keep speaking out, be heard, be seen, be engaged!
Chris