With last week’s state revenue forecast revealing a $2.4 billion budget surplus, House Republican budget lead, Rep. Drew Stokesbary, introduced a bill that would provide $1 billion in tax relief for Washington’s working families. Thirty-fifth District Reps. Drew MacEwen (assistant budget lead) and Dan Griffey joined every member of the House Republican Caucus in signing on to the measure.

The lawmakers issued the following statement Monday:

“While House Republicans are looking to deliver $1 billion in tax relief for Washington families, it’s clear the majority party is only interested in raising taxes and growing the size of government. Washingtonians don’t want higher taxes. They want $30 car tabs and for us to be responsible with what they’ve given us. We can think of no better way to be responsible than to put money back in their pockets and let them choose how to spend it.”

House Bill 2946 would:

• Uphold voters’ demand for $30 car tabs, while ensuring stable funding for roads and transit.
• Eliminate the sales tax on prepared food items sold at grocery stores.
• Eliminate the sales tax on personal necessities like feminine hygiene products, breast pumps, and diapers.

In a news release last week, Stokesbary, R-Auburn, said the following:

“House Republicans are intent on delivering $30 car tabs this session. Unfortunately, the majority party has not shown any willingness to uphold the clear will of the voters. House Bill 2946 provides a path forward to implement $30 car tabs without compromising transportation projects, while also offering meaningful sales tax relief on food and many personal necessities. I’m proud to be united with my House Republican colleagues in working to make life more affordable for all Washingtonians.”

Along with Stokesbary’s bill, House Republicans have also introduced bills to reduce the state property tax, provide a back-to-school sales tax holiday, and reaffirm the prohibition of the imposition of a local income tax.

The 2020 session is scheduled to adjourn March 12.