Maycumber: Washington Can’t Tax Ag Out Of The State

Last week, the Washington House Committee on Environment and Energy held a public hearing on legislation proposed by Representative Jacquelin Maycumber, focused on providing regulatory relief for the state’s Ag community.  The Republic Republican said House Bill 1985 would modify the emission rules implemented on the Ag industry.

She pointed to the asparagus industry as an example, saying that Washington use to be a large producer of asparagus, but regulations were put in place aimed at helping the environment, forcing the asparagus industry to all but leave Washington.  Maycumber said now to asparagus is shipped to Washington on large ships from overseas, creating a much larger carbon footprint.

“And to tax that industry, from beginning to end, that has nothing to do with the environment, and has everything to do with taxes.”

Maycumber said Washington consumers are still going to want Ag products, but by forcing those industries to shut down here, the state will purchase from locations with lax environmental or worker rights standards.  So, Maycumber’s legislation would require the state to look the ripple effect of proposed environmental regulations.

“You know what, we don’t want an apple industry in the state of Washington, and we’re going to tax that, much like the Governor’s proposal.  So, what happens is I says the department of Ecology compare an apple from Washington state that you’re going to purchase, and then an apple from overseas.  What is the emissions of these two apples?  So, you’re literally comparing apples to apples.”

Maycumber said by being able to compare the carbon footprint, the state and consumers will have a better idea of the impact of proposed regulations down the road.  Maycumber noted the language of her legislation comes from the 2015 carbon tax bill proposal.

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