Rep. Travis Couture, R-Allyn, the ranking Republican on the House Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement regarding the House Democrats operating budget proposal:
“Today, House Democrats released a budget proposal that will crush Washington’s working families.
“This proposal includes a devastating set of tax increases – the largest in state history – all so Democrats can continue their record-breaking spending. If this budget passes, it will drive jobs out of Washington state, price people out of their homes, and hurt the working class.
“The Democrats want to massively increase your property taxes.
“They are also proposing a massive 50% B&O tax increase on Washington’s largest employers. This is a job-killing tax that will hurt businesses and increase the cost of goods and services. It is a direct attack on Washington employers and will drive more businesses out of the state, which is already ranked as among the worst states for businesses.
“Despite the largest set of tax increases in state history, if passed this budget would be the 4th consecutive state budget where the state spends more money than it brings in.
“If Democrats pass this budget without reforming the budget process, we will have continued reckless spending and increased taxes, but we will be back here once again facing the same budget woes in the future, and regular Washingtonians will pay the price.”