Desperately needed COVID-19 relief is a top priority for this year’s state Legislature, and Republicans and Democrats generally agree it will be necessary to get that aid out as soon as possible.
The parties are split, however, when it comes to increasing some taxes to erase a revenue shortfall.
House Speaker Laurie Jinkins, D-Tacoma, outlined on Thursday some of the early economic relief Democrats have lined up. This included at least $300 million for rental and utility assistance; $120 million for business assistance grants; and $25 million for food assistance. She said they want to reduce state taxes on pandemic emergency Paycheck Protection Program federal funds, currently subject to the state Business & Occupation tax, and waive property fees and lower property tax rates for businesses.
She also said they would propose tapping the state’s rainy-day funds to help pay for the proposals.
“We’re in rainy days,” she said.
