Ericksen: Latest Tax Proposal Will Hurt Washington Farmers, Motorists

Republicans in Olympia say the newest tax proposal would hurt Washington's middle class and farmers a like.  Senate Bill 5993 looks to raise taxes on fuel nearly $1 billion over the next four years, specifically by increasing the state's hazardous substance tax rate on oil production.  The measure would impose a tax of $2.52 a barrel, equivalent to six cents a gallon.  The proposal was introduced Tuesday, and is moving through the Senate quickly by the majority party.

Senator Doug Ericksen said it seems like Democrats in the legislature are trying to drive oil refineries and farmers out of our state.

"I'm amazed, they keep coming back with more and more taxes on the oil industry, on refineries on industry, thinking some how thinking they're targeted rich corporations.  And in reality all they're doing is impacting the working families of Washington state and driving up energy costs."

The Ferndale Republican said SB 5993 will negatively impact the state's Ag economy.

"It also applies to our farmers, and when they see this hit them, it's going to be a gigantic tax increase on agriculture in Washington state."

Ericksen added the "onslaught" of proposed tax increases from Democrats at a time when the state is bringing in billions of dollars more than expected is like nothing he’s ever seen before in his more than 20-years in the legislature.

Click Here to learn more about SB 5993.

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