Washington has one of the most regressive tax systems in the country, and I strongly support making our tax code more progressive and fair.
I didn’t vote “no” on SB 6346 because the bill went too far. I voted no because it didn’t go far enough to deliver meaningful economic relief for working families across our state.
During the debate, I offered fifteen amendments that would have strengthened the bill by expanding relief for childcare, college students, seniors and people with disabilities, and middle-class families. These proposals were designed to ensure that new revenue would translate directly into tangible support for people facing the rising costs of housing, childcare, education, and everyday necessities. Unfortunately, only one of those amendments were accepted.
If we’re going to ask the wealthiest Washingtonians to contribute more, we should also make sure those resources are clearly and directly tied to real relief and opportunity for working people. That means making stronger investments in areas like childcare, housing, education, and pathways to economic mobility.
I remain committed to pursuing tax reform that truly addresses Washington’s regressive tax system and ensures that any changes deliver clear, meaningful benefits for the families and communities who need them most.
I will work to ensure accountability to our neighbors and working families on the promises made in this proposal and will continue to fight for a progressive tax system that provides real and tangible regressive tax relief.
Rep. Kristine Reeves