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In this KPQ interview, Senators Shelly Short and Judy Warnick share insights on Olympia’s legislative session, including bill cutoff drama, opposition to a proposed state income tax, and concerns over SB 5974 limiting local control of sheriffs. They highlight strategic maneuvers, constitutional questions, and impacts on Washington communities.

Senator Jeff Wilson calls the proposed income tax the most consequential bill of the session, warning it will devastate families and businesses. He fears the measure will spread “like tax wildfire” if enacted and urges hope that it never reaches the governor’s desk.

Senator Mark Schoesler reflects on decades of broken promises tied to taxes, from sales tax to lottery and capital gains. He argues that history shows government cannot be trusted to limit taxation, warning that the proposed income tax is just another step toward higher rates and less transparency.

Senator Shelly Short voices strong opposition to a proposed state income tax, questioning when taxation will be “enough.” She highlights constituent concerns about escalating taxes and the long-term impact on families, emphasizing the need for accountability and clarity in state spending priorities.

Senator John Braun discusses a bill expanding child endangerment laws to include fentanyl exposure. With fentanyl-related tragedies among young children on the rise, this legislation aims to provide an additional tool to safeguard kids and address a growing public health crisis across Washington state. Learn more in The Elephant in the Dome Podcast.

OLYMPIA… Sen. Nikki Torres, R-Pasco, and Rep. Travis Couture, R-Allyn, released the following statements after learning that Senate Bill 5977 will not be moving forward in the House of Representatives. Senate Bill 5977 would require the Department of Children, Youth, and Families to publish reports on child near-fatality reviews, bringing those cases in line with existing...

In Olympia, the hits just keep on coming — in the form of more tax and fee hikes. Tracy Ellis explains.

Senator John Braun and Fostering Change Washington’s Jamie Williams discuss stalled child protection bills and the urgent need to update Washington’s child endangerment laws. They explore the fentanyl crisis, legislative roadblocks, and how citizens can push for accountability to protect vulnerable children from drug-exposed environments. Support Senate Bill 5071—contact your legislators today and demand action...

OLYMPIA… The agenda for today’s meeting of the Senate Ways and Means Committee has Senate Republican budget leaders suggesting only one party in Olympia is committed to making Washington more affordable. If the seven tax or fee bills on deck for committee votes today all become law, the combined annual cost is estimated at nearly $950...

In an interview with Jason Rantz, Sen. John Braun criticizes Washington’s proposed 9.9% income tax, arguing it violates the constitution, threatens small businesses, and accelerates outmigration. He highlights economic risks, pass-through business impacts, and other controversial bills shaping the state’s future.

Sen. Phil Fortunato, R-Auburn, shares his perspective on two controversial bills. First, he examines a proposal to seal records for individuals who change their gender identity, raising concerns about its potential clash with an initiative protecting girls’ sports. Then, he dives into a second bill that would impose new qualifications for elected sheriffs — requirements...

During Senate floor debate on Senate Bill 6346, Sen. Nikki Torres rises in opposition to the Democrats’ proposed income tax. Torres argues the measure would open the door to a broader income tax in Washington and disproportionately harm small and minority-owned businesses across the state. Drawing from her experience as former president and CEO of...