RADIO | Capitol Report with Rep. Peter Abbarno: Opposing the new state income tax and restoring the voice of the people

February 5, 2026

In this week’s Capitol Report, House Republican Caucus Chair Peter Abbarno reports on the majority party’s formal introduction of a state income tax through House Bill 2724 and Senate Bill 6346.

Abbarno argues that while proponents call this a “millionaire’s tax,” it serves as a starting point for a tax structure that will inevitably grow over time. He specifically criticizes the inclusion of an emergency clause, which would trigger the tax immediately and prevent Washington citizens from challenging it through a referendum.

Additionally, Abbarno contends the tax is unconstitutional based on long-standing court rulings regarding property uniformity, and notes that the proposal creates a “marriage penalty” on combined household income while targeting public pensions.

The report also highlights the “listening sessions” recently hosted by House and Senate Republicans regarding citizen-led initiatives. After the majority party refused to hear initiatives concerning fairness in girls’ sports and a Parents’ Bill of Rights, Republicans held these sessions to ensure the nearly one million Washingtonians who signed the petitions had a voice in Olympia.