We should not reduce it in electing our representatives. The priority for tax reduction should go for property taxes, specifically to those who are being taxed from their homes. In the last decade, property taxes have shifted from equal shares for residential and commercial taxpayers, to residential taxpayers paying 60 percent. While this is a consequence of increased residential property values, it creates a problem for residential property owners who haven't had income grow at the same rate as their property appreciation. The Legislature can make changes without constitutional amendments to help residential property owners.
Personal privacy is paramount.
Everyone should follow the same rules, including financial institutions and government. A commission studying transportation funding says a new financing mechanism is needed to keep Washington transportation projects on track. I support the efforts of the Blue Ribbon Commission to improve the efficiency of our current system's management. Improvements in planning and construction, and a reduction of administration must be a start. Also, local voters should be given the ability to finance additional transportation investments.