Coming up on Legislative Review — the fight over Washington’s proposed “millionaire’s tax” moves to the House, and lawmakers consider updates to the state’s wrongful conviction compensation law.
Millionaire’s Tax Proposal – Senate Bill 6346
The Washington House Finance Committee reviews Senate Bill 6346, a Democratic-backed proposal that would place a 9.9% tax on annual income above $1 million.
Prime sponsor Jamie Pedersen says the measure would address what supporters call Washington’s regressive tax structure. The bill is projected to generate roughly $3.7 billion annually, with 95% directed to the state general fund and 5% set aside for a new county public defense account. Funding would support public education, health care, early learning, and other services.
Supporters argue fewer than 1% of households would be affected. Opponents, including former Attorney General Rob McKenna, question the bill’s constitutionality and call it an income tax in disguise. Critics also warn it could drive high earners and businesses out of the state.
The bill cleared the Senate and now awaits further action in the House, setting up one of the session’s most closely watched tax debates.
Wrongful Conviction Compensation Reform – Senate Bill 5520
The Washington House Civil Rights & Judiciary Committee takes up Senate Bill 5520, sponsored by Tina Orwall, which would revise Washington’s law compensating individuals who were wrongly convicted and imprisoned.
The proposal would broaden the definition of “actual innocence,” clarify what qualifies as new exculpatory evidence, and expand eligibility in cases where convictions are overturned and charges dismissed, retrials end in acquittal, or certain Alford pleas are involved.
Current law provides $50,000 per year of incarceration for those found to be wrongly convicted.
Supporters say the bill strengthens access to justice and fairness for exonerees. Critics argue it lowers the legal threshold for claims and could increase state payouts.
The bill passed the Senate and now awaits further House consideration.