Four initiatives give Washington voters a historic chance to weigh in

This fall gives a unique opportunity for Washington voters to have a direct say in public policy.  A total of seven different initiatives have been qualified this year, with three already being passed into law during the legislative session (I-2081 concerning parental rights, I-2111 prohibiting income taxes in WA, and I-2113 restoring police pursuits).

This coming election, voters will be able to vote yes or no on four remaining initiatives:

• I-2066 would allow natural gas to be offered as an energy option
• I-2109 would repeal the capital gains excise tax
• I-2117 would eliminate the climate commitment act and ban future carbon taxes
• I-2124 would allow workers to either opt-in or out of the WA Cares Long Term Coverage program

Washington’s Democratic majorities in the legislature have enacted sweeping new programs in the last 5 years. And WA voters have continued to send those legislators back into office with broad support. However, by being on the ballot this fall for a vote, residents will be fully educated on these issues during the final two months of the campaign. While many voters have certainly supported the party and the legislators who enacted these policies, the initiative process gives voters an additional chance to vote up or down for those policies themselves.

Whether these policies are repealed or upheld by voters will have a significant impact on the lives and cost of living in our state

Initial polling by both the supporters and opponents of the initiatives shows a close race on all of them.

The Let’s Go Washington team has a simple message for voters: “Vote Yes, Pay Less.”

The No campaigns and their allied organizations and spokespeople, including Governor Inslee, argue that these programs are necessary investments in the health and well being of Washingtonians. In the coming weeks, everyone will be bombarded with combatting claims and counterclaims about what these initiatives will or won’t accomplish.

Regardless of where you come down in support or opposition for any of these initiatives, please take this opportunity seriously. Educate yourself on facts about each item, and then you can make an informed decision this fall. You don’t often get the opportunity to play a role in direct democracy.

Find trusted sources that will explain both the plusses and minuses on the issues.

And then for goodness sakes, be sure you vote this fall during this rare and historical opportunity in WA.