UPDATE: Washington State Senator Noel Frame is gearing up for a pivotal tax battle in 2026, as pressure mounts to address a significant budget shortfall. Just this week, at the Northwest African American Museum, Frame declared her commitment to reforming the tax system that many believe disproportionately burdens low-income residents.
Lawmakers are facing a $1 billion budget deficit, worsened by unproductive tax increases and spending cuts that failed to resolve the crisis this year. During her speech, Frame—dubbed the “Revenue Queen” by Eli Taylor Goss from the Washington State Budget and Policy Center—emphasized the urgency of the situation. “I want to have a future for Washington state where it’s not just a rich person’s playground,” she stated.
Lawmakers are exploring a potential 9.9% income tax on individuals earning over $1 million annually, and while discussions are intensifying, no formal proposal has been drafted yet. Frame noted that this concept is gaining traction among Senate Democrats, indicating a shift in tax policy discussions.
The legislative session kicks off in January 2024, and with only 60 days to make substantial changes before the elections, the stakes are incredibly high. “Be prepared to win three times over,” Frame cautioned, emphasizing the need for community support to push any new legislation through potential legal challenges and public ballots.
Additionally, Frame’s proposed wealth tax, targeting assets over $50 million, narrowly passed the Senate with a 26-21 vote on the final day of the last session. However, it remains stalled in the House, with Governor Bob Ferguson expressing concerns over its viability amidst legal uncertainties.
As Washington is one of only nine states without an income tax, progressive advocates view this as a critical opportunity to rebalance the tax code. Frame highlighted that there has been more discussion about income tax in the past six months than in the last 15 years, despite previous voter rejections and Supreme Court blocks.
“If we are going to do this, we need to do it right,” Frame emphasized, addressing an audience eager for reform. The upcoming legislative session promises to be a battleground where the future of Washington’s tax policy hangs in the balance.
The urgency of tax reform resonates with many, as advocates push for a system that ensures corporate giants contribute their fair share to public services. As discussions evolve, the implications for Washington state residents remain profound, making it crucial for citizens to stay informed and engaged ahead of the legislative showdown.
Expect more updates as the January session approaches and new proposals emerge. The time for action is now, and the outcome could reshape the financial landscape of Washington for years to come.
