Episode Details

Washington voters face a pivotal ballot decision on November 3 over Initiative 645, which seeks to repeal a new income tax on high earners set to begin in 2028. The tax was projected to generate $2.7 billion its first year — money earmarked for education and human services. A key legal battle centers on whether a one-sentence fiscal impact statement, drafted by the Attorney General’s office, must appear on the ballot. A state Supreme Court commissioner recently ruled it must stay, rejecting arguments that the disclosure is unconstitutional or unnecessary. The dispute stems from a 2022 law mandating neutral fiscal disclosures for public investment measures. Activist Arthur West, challenging the law, claims it undermines voters’ initiative power by letting officials shape ballot language. He argues the statement is biased, though a separate fiscal report will also be available. The case is still pending before the state Supreme Court, with groups supporting the statement and others backing West’s appeal. The outcome could reshape how initiatives are presented statewide — and how voters understand their financial impact.

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