
Lawmaker says ‘The people continually tell the Legislature ‘no’ and the Legislature has continually increased taxes. It’s time for that to stop’
Rep. Greg Cheney, R-Battle Ground, wants voters to have more of a voice when it comes to tax increases.
The 18th District lawmaker is cosponsoring a constitutional amendment that would require a vote of the people to approve any tax increases passed by the Legislature.
“Some of the issues that came up as I traveled around my district this past year were the issues of affordability and cost of living,” said Cheney. “It’s not just inflation, but the price of fuel, housing, higher education, health care, and child care. Every aspect of life can be financially draining. I think in response to what my constituents are saying, further parameters and protections against unwanted and unnecessary tax increases is justified.”
The proposal Cheney is cosponsoring, House Joint Resolution 4202, would require a referendum – a vote of the people – at the next general election after a tax increase is passed by the Legislature. If voters reject the tax increase, the original legislation would go back to the legislative chamber of origin. No amendments to the original bill would be allowed, but if both the House and Senate passed the measure again, it would become law without triggering another mandatory referendum.
“Voters have continually rejected tax increases, and we know this because we see the results of the tax advisory votes,” said Cheney, who is a practicing attorney. “The people continually tell the Legislature ‘no’ and the Legislature continually increases taxes. It’s time for that to stop. It’s time to add some weight to the voice of the people and let them have the final say.”
In Washington state, a constitutional amendment like HJR 4202 must have the support of two-thirds of the legislators in both the House and Senate to pass the Legislature. If that happens, it would then go to a vote of the people, where a simple majority vote would establish it into law.
The 105-day 2023 legislative session began Jan. 9.
Information provided by Washington State House Republicans, houserepublicans.wa.gov
Also read:
- Leslie Lewallen officially files for re-election to Camas City CouncilLeslie Lewallen launches her re-election campaign for Camas City Council, highlighting key accomplishments and a continued focus on community priorities.
- Letter: ‘Something is wrong when our vote means nothing’Bob Zak challenges the political handling of the I-5 Bridge project and urges voters to demand accountability.
- Letter: ‘This is a time for bold leadership, clear advocacy, and strong representation’Justin Forsman of Vancouver announces his candidacy for mayor and outlines a bold new platform focused on rights, infrastructure, and local governance.
- Opinion: Schools notifying parents about the kinds of care kids can decide on their own didn’t make itElizabeth New criticizes the removal of Amendment 1164 from current legislation, arguing it leaves parents uninformed about health care services accessed by their children through schools.
- Ridgefield School District invites community to help shape new Strategic PlanRidgefield School District is hosting three public sessions to gather community input for its new Strategic Plan.
- Julianne Lawrence is first paid director of Two Rivers Heritage MuseumJulianne Lawrence has been appointed the first paid director of the Two Rivers Heritage Museum following a strategic effort by the Camas-Washougal Historical Society.
- Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools breaks ground on new building to support construction trades at Fort Vancouver High School with the Ed and Dollie Lynch FundFort Vancouver High School will soon be home to a donor-funded trades center focused on welding and advanced manufacturing education.
I like it but does it have a chance of even getting to Inslee? Is this a serious attempt or political theater?
Why would the legislature, which passed it the first time, be allowed to vote on it again? If the voters say no, then its no!!
Good effort by Cheney. But with the tax loving D’s in charge, it is likely dead-on-arrival.