Sen. Shelly Short and Rep. Andrew Engell break down state budgets, the income tax fight, rural hospital support, wildfire funding, transportation investments, and major bills affecting the 7th District. Plus, insights from a recent telephone town hall and youth engagement in the legislative process.

Sen. Keith Goehner joins KPQ to discuss budget deadlines, revenue concerns, and the proposed income tax. He updates listeners on key bills, local law‑enforcement authority, and feedback from a recent town hall. Goehner also highlights the Apple Blossom Royalty’s visit as the legislative session enters its final weeks.

In this week’s update, Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, shares the latest from Olympia as the Senate debates a proposed state income tax that has generated historic public response, with more than 100,000 people signing in CON. Boehnke outlines his concerns about how the proposal could affect families’ everyday costs, including groceries, gas, and small-business operations,...

Senator John Braun explains how the proposed income tax is built into four‑year budget planning, bringing in nearly $3 billion before it would be collected in 2029. He raises concerns about implementation, including the need to build an entirely new tax‑administration system, and doubts it can be done in time.

Senator Jeff Wilson warns that Washington is on track for its most expensive budget year ever, potentially topping $80 billion. He highlights long‑term concerns about a future income tax, ongoing pressure for more revenue, and contrasts these with what he views as a comparatively responsible transportation budget.

Senator Mark Schoesler criticizes the proposed operating budget for relying on one‑time funds, unrealistic spending assumptions, and an income tax he believes is unconstitutional and unlikely to survive voter approval. He argues the plan masks fiscal problems instead of responsibly balancing long‑term needs.