In Washington state, the fate of certain initiatives that will go to the voters in November might be determined by the State Attorney General's Office.

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This office will decide whether these initiatives are subject to a new law, House Bill 1876, requiring disclosure of their fiscal impact.

Initiatives on the Ballot

According to the law, any initiative or ballot measure impacting taxes or fees and causing a net change in state revenue must undergo public investment impact disclosures.

There are 3 different initiatives on the ballot. Initiative 2109 aims to eliminate the state’s tax on capital gains, while Initiative 2124 allows residents to opt out of a long-term care insurance program linked to paycheck deductions. Initiative 2117 seeks to revoke the state’s cap and trade program, which operates through carbon credit auctions instead of direct taxation.

Threat of Legal Action

Although two of the initiatives do not directly pertain to taxes or fees, there is still a possibility that the AGO could add disclosures to them. Anti-tax activist Tim Eyman has already expressed concerns and threatened legal action to prevent this government-mandated narrative from influencing voters' decisions.

Debate Over Impact Disclosures

Proponents of the law argue that these disclosures give voters a better understanding of the financial implications of ballot measures. However, critics, like Sen. Jeff Wilson, believe that it interferes with the essence of initiative campaigns and misleads voters about spending priorities.

Potential Voter Impact

A survey conducted in October 2023 suggested that the initiatives might face significant rejection if the disclosures are included. This insight raises concerns about how government influence could sway voters' decisions on crucial policy matters.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Do you believe that the new law requiring fiscal impact disclosures for initiatives is beneficial or harmful? How do you think these disclosures could impact voter decisions in Washington? Should the AGO have the authority to add disclosures to initiatives, or should this power be questioned?

Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!