On Wednesday, Ryan Frost, director of budget and tax policy for the Washington Policy Center, addressed community members at the Vancouver Community Library about Washington’s newly enacted 9.9% income tax. Frost argued the tax is a symptom of the state’s chronic overspending and warned that, without a repeal, it will affect every resident.

Key points from the presentation

Frost highlighted three main concerns:

• Spending problem: He said Washington continues to approve higher spending levels even as the budget already exceeds projections.
• Broad tax base: Although the law provides a $1 million standard deduction for each household, Frost noted that the deduction could be reduced or eliminated by a simple legislative majority.
• Constitutional challenge: The tax’s legality is currently being reviewed by the courts, and the outcome will influence whether the tax remains in force.

Frost emphasized that the tax is a flat 9.9% on all taxable income after the deduction. He warned that as the deduction shrinks, more families—especially lower‑income households—will feel the impact.

Voter initiative on the horizon

Washington voters will see an initiative on the November ballot, known as “Progressive 645,” which seeks to repeal the income tax. Frost urged residents to use their vote to oppose the tax, stating that without a repeal the tax will take effect on January 1, 2028, with the first collections beginning in April 2029 for the 2028 tax year.

He also warned that a majority‑leader in the state legislature has expressed interest in a fully progressive income tax if the current measure survives, which could further broaden the tax burden.

Context and reactions

Supporters of the tax have called it a “millionaire’s tax,” but Frost cautioned voters not to be misled. He said the tax’s design makes it a universal levy, not a targeted measure on high earners. He compared the state’s fiscal approach to a “drug addict needing to hit rock bottom before changing,” suggesting that Washington must curb spending before relying on new taxes.

Local officials and community members asked questions about how the tax would be administered and what safeguards exist for families near the deduction threshold. Frost answered that the tax’s details are still being refined and that legislative action could alter the deduction amount.

What’s next?

Washington residents will have the opportunity to vote on the repeal initiative in November. In the meantime, the courts will continue to hear challenges to the tax’s constitutionality. Frost encouraged citizens to stay informed, attend future town‑hall meetings, and consider the long‑term fiscal health of the state when casting their ballots.

For more information on the upcoming ballot measure and how to get involved, voters can visit the Washington Policy Center’s website or contact their local election office.

Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.