(The Center Square) – More than 24 hours after members of the Washington State House of Representatives began debate on an income tax on high earners, the legislation was passed out of the chamber on a 51-46 vote.
Seven Democrats joined every Republican in opposing Senate Bill 6346, a 9.9% tax on annual incomes over $1 million, dubbed the “millionaire’s tax.”
Republicans put up most of some 80 amendments to the bill, which were summarily dismissed by majority party Democrats.
Rep. Amy Walen, D-Kirkland, a moderate Democrat, offered an amendment that would require a vote of the people to amend the state constitution to allow an income tax.
A handful of Democrats joined every Republican in support for the amendment, but it failed.
On final passage, Rep. Suzanne Schmidt, R-Spokane Valley, urged members to reject the tax on millionaires, which opponents contend will eventually be a tax on all levels of income and lead to more flight from the state by higher earners.
“When I left my district and was driving over for this session, I received calls on my way here against this tax,” she said. “They were so concerned about what this was going to do to their business. I have received more emails about this legislation than any other bill since I’ve been here.”
Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon, D-West Seattle, rejected Republican arguments that businesses and wealthy people will leave the state because of the tax.
“It’s an economy here where wealthy people have chosen to live, and where they have chosen to start businesses and grow their businesses and have kids here,” he said.
Several Republicans rose in strong opposition to the bill ahead of final passage, but with Democrats holding a 59-39 majority, even with eight Democrats joining Republicans in opposition, they could not stop the bill from clearing the House.
Democrats could be heard clapping and cheering loudly in the House wings following final passage. Republicans also celebrated their ability to force debate for more than 24 hours.
“I don’t believe this is a good direction for Washington state,” said Rep. Dan Griffey, R-Allyn in the House wings after final passage. “Taxing those with the wherewithal to give back to Washington and taking from them because somebody else needs it more is not a righteous tax.”
Exhausted members were anxious to get out of the Legislative Building after final passage, some wiping away tears as they walked out.
Around 6:30 p.m. as some members were still filing out, Gov. Bob Ferguson was seen in the rotunda but chose not to speak with The Center Square.
“It was a good night,” was all Ferguson said as he hurried down the stairs.
The Senate must approve the House’s amendments before the bill can head to Ferguson for his signature and become law.
The legislative session ends on Thursday.
