The Chamber opposes I-1098, the proposed income tax on individuals earning more than $200,000. The Chamber noted that the initiative also would tax S corporations, limited liability companies and partnerships and would be very damaging to many Eastside companies.
“For local businesses, Initiative 1098 creates an additional 9 percent tax on top of the B&O taxes they already pay,” said Jean Bartell Barber, Vice Chairman and Treasurer of The Bartell Drug Company. “National competitors will pay no additional tax. This is unfair to private businesses and puts us at a distinct disadvantage.”
With two competing liquor privatization initiatives on the ballot, the Chamber has decided to support I-1100 and take no position on I-1105.
“Selling liquor and wine is not an essential state function,” said Joel Benoliel Sr. Vice President and Chief Legal Officer for Costco. “We think the liquor board should be focused on enforcement and education, and leave sales and marketing to the private sector, as is done in 32 other states. It’s time to reform a 77 year old system that no longer suits the way we live.”
Costco is one of the prime backers of I-1100.
The Chamber supports I-1053, which would require a 2/3 vote of the Legislature to pass a tax increase. Voters have passed such a requirement before, but it has been overturned by the Legislature in later years.
The Chamber also supports privatizing workers’ compensation as outlined in I-1082.
Finally, the Chamber supports a “yes” vote on I-1107, which would repeal the state taxes on soda, bottled water and candy.
“Instead of controlling spending, the Legislature imposed new and higher taxes on food and beverage products during the last hours of the 2010 special legislative session,” said Bob Slack, Market Unit Vice President for Coca-Cola Enterprises. “This was done without adequate public input. Due to the lack of public input this legislation was poorly written, confusing, and is unfair and costly to Washington food and beverage producers, grocery stores, businesses and consumers.”
