Olympia: Governor Proposes Millionaire Tax and Infrastructure Funding
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OLYMPIA — Governor Bob Ferguson on Jan. 13, 2026 delivered his State of the State address, urging lawmakers to adopt a 9.9% tax on income above $1 million and to invest in housing, roads and ferries. He also sought bipartisan cooperation. He outlined a response to December 2025 flooding, proposed a nearly $245 million housing supplemental, and detailed using half the rainy-day fund to address a $2.3 billion shortfall alongside cuts to grants and higher-education budgets. Ferguson warned revenue from the proposed millionaire tax would not begin until 2029 and anticipated legal challenges. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.
Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- Washington historically lacks a state personal income tax.
- December 2025 — Historic flooding affects Washington communities.
- Jan. 13, 2026 — Gov. Ferguson delivers State of the State proposing a millionaire tax.
- Jan. 2026 — Ferguson outlines a $2.3 billion budget shortfall and proposed cuts.
- Officials estimate millionaire tax revenue earliest in 2029 and foresee legal challenges.
- Articles Published:
- 6
- Right Leaning:
- 1
- Left Leaning:
- 2
- Neutral:
- 3
- Distribution:
- Left 33%, Center 50%, Right 17%
High-income taxpayers would bear the direct new levy while contractors, construction trades, ferry and road vendors, and residents gaining affordable housing or improved infrastructure would likely receive funded projects and contracts from the proposed investments.
Lower- and middle-income Washington residents could face service reductions from proposed budget cuts, while universities and social-service grant recipients may see reduced funding to cover the $2.3 billion shortfall.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson addresses housing, infrastructure in State of the State address
AppleValleyNewsNow.com The Seattle TimesFrom Center
Olympia: Governor Proposes Millionaire Tax and Infrastructure Funding
Axios The Spokesman Review YahooFrom Right
Governor Ferguson outlines budget proposal amid $2.3 billion shortfall | FOX 28 Spokane
FOX 28 Spokane
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