Olympia this week

Inslee repeats push for state capital gains income tax  ( 770KTTH )

Jay Inslee is – once again – calling for a state capital gains income tax. Despite the IRS classifying it as such, Inslee insists that the capital gains tax is not a form of income tax.

Inslee  also insists that the capital gains income tax would solve taxing inequality. Appearing on the Jason Rantz Show, Rep. Drew Stokesbary (R-Auburn) explains how Inslee’s claims are both misleading and irresponsible. Pointing out that Inslee has failed to produce “an original idea” during his eight years as governor, Stokesbury makes a case for how Republicans view the solution to taxing inequality.

“Everybody is taxed too much in this state and definitely the working class, and the solution to that isn’t to raise taxes on somebody else.”  Instead, the solution is “to give a tax rebate to the working class who already pay too much as it is.”

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Inslee and fellow West Coast governors approve Moderna COVID-19 vaccine  (Seattle Times)

Earlier this year, Jay Inslee joined other Left Coast governors in a pact to require a vaccine be subject to political approval, independent of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The agreement was nothing more than an attempt to undermine the Trump administration.

Of course, the Democrat governors only managed to create the appearance that government officials distrusted the vaccine itself.

Called the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup, Inslee announced that his pact authorized the use of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

Mr Trump lost the election. The vaccine – according to Inslee and his fellow Democrat governors – can now be distributed to the public.

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State Commerce officials plan for “equity” in transportation policy (Washington Policy Center)

The state Department of Commerce is looking to “reduce or altogether eliminate people’s need to drive.”

As part of their attempt, Commerce officials are drafting a state energy strategy with the intent to move people and goods “more efficiently and equitably.”

As the Washington Policy Center points out, “Officials argue that vehicle emissions have disproportionate impacts on communities that live near highways, ports, rail, and other industrial areas.”

The answer – according to officials – is to reduce “vehicle miles traveled (VMT), or how much people drive.”

Despite disputing studies and evidence, state officials appear determined to move ahead with their plan to reduce VMT and “shift travel onto more efficient modes” – like public transit.

Officials go so far as to cite King County’s public transit as an example of the “most effective and lowest-cost strategy.”

The ridiculous assertion completely ignores Sound Transit’s notoriety for “spending astronomical amounts of public money on projects like light rail that yield low benefits.”

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State associations warn against new taxes in 2021-23 operating budget  (The LENS)

Jay Inslee’s 2021-23 operating budget includes spending increases and new taxes – including a state capital gains income tax.

Given the impacts of COVID-19 shutdowns, Inslee’s new tax proposals would deliver another hard blow to small businesses and struggling families across Washington.

Stakeholders are warning of the harmful impact of the new taxes.

Washington Hospitality Association President and CEO Anthony Anton said they have been the “hardest hit by the pandemic and the state’s response to it, which is why we’ve urged and will continue to urge Gov. Jay Inslee and the legislature to make relief for our industry an early priority in the 2021 session.”

Association of Washington Business (AWB) President Kris Johnson expressed disappointment over Inslee “proposing any tax increases at this time.”

Johnson said new taxes are “not only a potential roadblock to economic recovery, it’s not necessary” because our state’s budget has “steadily improved over the last several months, making it possible to balance the budget without raising taxes.”

Stop spending our money on your fantasies, Mr Inslee.
 

Tim Eyman has a tax hernia

Tim Eyman recently released information he gathered. State officials like Attorney General Bob Ferguson do not like Tim Eyman working for taxpayers and against them.  Bob Ferguson has spread malicious narrative against Eyman.  When Ferguson does that it takes money -- our tax money.

Mr Eyman says Mr Ferguson's investigation and litigation directed at Mr Eyman's legal activities has cost taxpayers $1,733,180.33 to date. 

The press release added Mr Eyman has developed a hernia.  Not a surprise considering the stress he must be under for the state government hating on him.

Mr Eyman is currently struggling against the elite Democrats planned income tax, and against the Democrats planned carbon tax.

State taxes have already increase 83%.  Its time for the greedy state government to stop taking more of our money. 

And lay off Mr Eyman and let him heal up.

 ~~~~~

Governor Jay Inslee's carbon tax is designed to tax us so we pay more to get to where we are going.  No more freedom of movement unless we pay the tax.

This kinda reminds me of the medieval times when peasants were not allowed to travel somewhere else without their lord's permission.  Serfs were effectively tied to the ground where they were born.

Sometimes I wonder and imagine if that is what High Lord Jay Enslee has in mind -- tying us to the ground.  He and his Black Knight, Sir Bobble Ferguson, are pushing Washington state down that way.

Olympia this week

Inslee pushes for state capital gains income tax as part of budget proposal (Q13-EOX)

Jay Inslee is pushing for a new capital gains income tax and a tax on health insurers as part of his two-year, $57.6 billion budget proposal.

His proposal would drain the state’s rainy-day fund, amounting to $1.7 billion. But our revenues are still growing. And, in fact, state spending has increased around 85% since Inslee has taken office.

He will continue to take more of our money and give it to those who help him politically as long as we allow him to.

Inslee also claims a state capital gains income tax is not a form of income tax. His claim does not align with accepted tax law. Concerning the capital gains tax, the IRS states that “it is an income tax.” Capital gains “are treated as income under the tax code and taxed as such.”

If Inslee and his fellow Democrats pass a state capital gains income tax, the tax will face legal challenges. The state Constitution does not allow for an income tax.

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State auditor: Employment Security Department failed to prevent massive fraud, shared “inaccurate numbers”  (Puget Sound Business Journal)

In a new report, the office of State Auditor Pat McCarthy found that Washington state’s Employment Security Department (ESD) had “inadequate internal controls to prevent the massive unemployment insurance benefit fraud” that targeting our state in spring 2020. Further, the ESD reported “inaccurate numbers” concerning the fraud, including “how much taxpayers money was lost and recovered in the thefts.”

According to the report, ESD officials “paid out more fraudulent claims than they admitted, and recovered almost $100 million less than they said they did.” The state auditor also slammed the Inslee-controlled budget office for failing to “explicitly note the vast fraud and its financial impact on its own audited financial statements.”  One wonders if Inslee was personally benefitting from the fraud.

ESD officials have yet to face any consequences for the massive failure.

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Inslee proposes low carbon fuel standard, increasing gas tax (Seattle Times)

Jay Inslee revealed his latest attempt to increase all our energy taxes with his plan for a low carbon fuel standard and a cap on greenhouse-gas emissions.

House GOP Minority Leader Rep. J.T. Wilcox pointed out that Inslee’s low carbon fuel standard would mean a higher gas tax for hardworking Washington families. Wilcox said, “So often the people that can least afford it are paying the biggest price.”

State officials admit that Inslee’s new low carbon fuel standard could increase the cost of gas by 46 – 63 cents per gallon.

According to Todd Myers of the Washington Policy Center, Inslee’s push “continues the trend of proposing costly and ineffective strategies that focus more on political special interests than responsible environmental stewardship.”

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Democrats allow stunning lawlessness in Seattle (KOMONEWS)

Leftist-activist-gangsters have established a second version of the deadly, “summer-of-love” Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone (CHAZ).

The gangsters have taken over an “abandoned yellow house on 11th Avenue and East Denny Way.” Meanwhile, across the street, Antifa and other agitators have built a make-shift barricade to “prevent homeless men and women from receiving shelter from the city.”

KOMO News released a 90-minute documentary called, “Fight for the Soul of Seattle” that highlights the shocking mismanagement and corruption that plagues Seattle, resulting in harm to residents and business closures.

Washington state COVID death count exaggerated.

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) recently announced it will subtract hundreds of deaths from its count of COVID-19 fatalities as a result of methodological improvements.

However, while the changes are welcome, the Freedom Foundation’s analysis indicates they may still not be enough to correct continued deficiencies in DOH’s reporting of deaths due to COVID-19.

Combining several data sources obtained from DOH, the Freedom Foundation has compiled and analyzed the cause of death information from the death certificates of the nearly 2,000 fatalities DOH had attributed to COVID-19 as of early September.

The analysis shows that 170 death certificates contained no reference to COVID-19. Another 171 only reference COVID-19 as a possible “contributing factor” and not part of the causal chain of events leading to death. Dozens of other death certificates indicated that deaths attributed by DOH to COVID-19 had only a questionable or minimal connection to the virus.

(Freedom Foundation)

Olympia this week

Inslee extends restrictions on small businesses into next year  (Seattle Times)

Jay Inslee announced his latest restrictions on small businesses will be extended for three weeks – that means they will stay in place through the holidays and into the new year.

House and Senate Republicans released a joint statement opposing Inslee’s decision. The statement reads, “It’s very disappointing to see someone who has been drawing a government salary through this entire hardship ordering small businesses to continue complying with restrictions that are making it hard or impossible for them to feed their families. The governor has no idea the anguish and desperation average people are feeling right now.”

Business leaders are also expressing their opposition to Inslee’s latest order. Anthony Anton, president and CEO of the Washington Hospitality Association, stated, “This extended shutdown will decimate the hospitality industry, with no evidence to support that shutting our industry down works to control the spread of the virus.”

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Yakima Valley gym owner contests COVID fine and wins (Yakima Herald)

According to a state industrial appeals judge, the owner of Anytime Fitness owner in the Yakima area does not have to pay fines – $9,639 and $28,917 – imposed by the state Department of Labor & Industries for violating of the state’s COVID-19 restrictions.

The judge ruled that the state L&I failed to show sufficient evidence that “Anytime Fitness employees were in risk of exposure to COVID-19 when locations in Yakima, Selah and Union Gap were open in violation of Safe Start, the state’s reopening plan.”

L&I has 20 days to appeal the decision. The gym’s attorney says he “welcomed the opportunity to show further that L&I could not prove its case” against his client.

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WA Department of Health misses COVID tracking target by 84% (Washington Policy Center)

"They are doing better than they expected...."

The Washington State Department of Health’s (DOH) only contacted 6% of people who tested positive for COVID-19 as part of their attempt to contract trace to help prevent further spread. The DOH’s self-imposed goal is 90%.

Despite the embarrassing failure, officials insist that “they are doing better than expected, considering the most recent surge and staffing levels.”

Washington Policy Center’s Todd Myers put it, “We can be certain that as long as the Washington State Department of Health Considers missing its own target by more than 90% ‘better than expected,’ we cannot rely on their efforts to effectively limit the spread of the coronavirus.”

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Seattle police officers continue to leave at high rates (770KTTH)

The mass exodus of police officers from the Seattle Police Department (SPD) continues. Another 33 officers left since the beginning of November.

With Seattle Democrats defunding the SPD, morale is understandably low among police officers. More officers are expected to leave by early next year – a high number of officers have applied to law enforcement agencies outside of Seattle.

Officers are dealing with frequent assaults and rising crime rates – including a 12-year high homicide rate (KING5).

Seattle Police Officer’s Guild President Officer Mike Solan cites the “nonsensical agenda” of the “activist mob” for pushing the officers out and warns crime will get worse.

Unfortunately, Seattle Democrats have sided with the activist mob’s nonsensical agenda.

Freedom Foundation statement on Gov. Jay Inslee’s freshly extended shutdown

“Jay Inslee continues to out-do himself by now trying to cancel Christmas and New Years for millions of families and businesses,” said Aaron Withe, national director of the Freedom Foundation, which has filed numerous suits in Washington and other states where it has offices in response to over-reaching COVID regulations. “His actions are straight from the Grinch’s playbook.”

“Businesses across Washington are continuing to suffer,” he continued, “and many are closing because Inslee and his cronies continue to play politics with their lives and dreams. The toll these unnecessary, unscientific and unconstitutional edicts have had on Washingtonians is far worse than COVID has or will ever have.”

The Freedom Foundation's entire statement

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From the official Safe Start updates

"Gov. Inslee yesterday announced a three-week extension of the state’s current restrictions which will now be in place until Jan. 4, 2021.

"The three-week extension of statewide restrictions comes as the state’s healthcare system nears dangerous occupancy levels. With the effects of Thanksgiving on infection and hospital numbers still unknown, the extension will grant the state’s medical system much needed time to increase Intensive Care Unit (ICU) capacity before it’s overwhelmed.

"An overview of the restrictions is available here (link).  For all businesses and activities not addressed here (another link to the same material), previous phase guidance still applies."


 

Olympia Weekly

Inslee's latest restrictions will kill more jobs and small businesses during holiday season (Newsweek)  

Jay Inslee announced another round of harsh restrictions amid a “third wave” of COVID-19 cases in Washington State.

Once again, Inslee has shut down restaurants and bars, only allowing take-out and outdoor seating – in the dead of winter. Businesses from gyms to movie theaters are all shut down.

Inslee’s restrictions are not based on all the available science and data. For example, less than one percent of COVID-19 cases were traced to restaurants in Pierce, Walla Walla, and Clark Counties.

The president of the Washington Hospitality Association warned that the latest restrictions would kill 100,000 jobs statewide.

Indeed, the shutdowns will crush businesses just as many began to recover following the previous shutdown – and, no less, during the holiday season.

We need to protect the most vulnerable. We need to use all available science and data. We need to use targeted and uniformly applied restrictions. And we need to enlist people to help us and put our trust in them to do so.

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WA Democrats push income tax as "employer compensation tax"  (Washington Policy Center)

Democrats are circulating drafts for an “employer compensation tax” imposed on “employers engaging in business.” The draft currently exempts small businesses from the tax – but defines small businesses as “any business that reports annual compensation expense of no more than seven million dollars in the immediately preceding tax year.”

Behold the incrementalism.... They start at 7 million.  Next year it will be six million, and then five.... How soon will they apply the income tax toall of us?

The draft also states that the “employer may not make any deductions from the employees’ compensation to pay for this tax.” As the Washington Policy Center’s Jason Mercier points out, by placing the tax burden on businesses and banning deductions, the proposal “attempts to thread the needle to avoid imposing a constitutionally prohibited graduated income tax.”

Indeed, given the proposal also targets self-employed individuals along with all business types, the proposal looks like an income tax.

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Inslee shortlisted as Biden's climate advisor  (E&E News)

Jay Inslee is named among the candidates for Joe Biden’s domestic climate adviser. Only two other candidates are considered top prospects, including former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm (D) and Ali Zaidi, New York’s deputy secretary for energy and environment. Other candidates include John Podesta, a former White House chief of staff, and former EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy.

While running for a third term, Inslee promised he would not leave his position as governor for a place in a Biden administration. Of course, in order to get elected, Inslee also promised never to raise taxes --- we know how that worked out.

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State officials release COVID-19 vaccine plans (My Northwest)

Washington state officials have provided plans on how the COVID-19 vaccine will be distributed.

• The first round of vaccines – Phase 1A – will be given to “high risk workers in health care settings and high risk first responders.”
• The next round of vaccines – Phase 1B – will be handed out to “all people over 65 years of age, and people with underlying conditions that put them at ‘significantly higher risk.'”
• Phase 1C will include “critical workers at high exposure, including those working in K-12 child care, critical infrastructure, law enforcement, and agriculture.”
• Phase 2 will include “critical workers at a lower risk of exposure, non-essential workers at a high risk of exposure, people living in group homes and congregate facilities, and those with disabilities.”
• Phase 3 – the final phase – will “include young adults, children, and non-essential workers at low risk.”

There is no timeline established for each phase.

Freedom Foundation to Gov. Jay Inslee, You Need to Take a Step Back

Mike Knick, the owner of Graham Fitness in Washington, made the courageous decision to keep his gym open in spite of the state’s COVID-19 lockdown orders because he knows physical fitness is critical for maintaining a healthy body and sound mind.

But on Dec. 2, 2020, Washington Department of Labor & Industries made the very un-courageous decision to slap the business with an order and notice of immediate restraint, informing Knick that criminal penalties apply for non-compliance.

The order reads in part:

You are hereby directed to:

Cease operations that are prohibited by the Governor’s proclamation 20-25.6 until such time they are approved under the Governor’s Safe Start-Stay Healthy orders.

Pursuant to Governor Inslee’s order, only certain business activities may resume business activities, in order to protect the health and safety of workers and the public.

By being open for business, (Graham Fitness) presents a threat to the public health and safety of its customers and employees given the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic in Washington State.

“The Freedom Foundation will continue to stand by these brave business owners against destructive government overreach by bureaucrats who haven’t had to miss a paycheck,” said Aaron Withe, Freedom Foundation National Director.

Knick explained, “We’ve been doing everything we can to just make it flourish and help our community and give our employees a living and make a living on the side for ourselves.

“They could fine me a million dollars a day,” he said. “What does it matter if my business is going to shut down if I shut down?”

“We’re not afraid,” Knick declared. “Gov. Jay Inslee, I think you need to take a big step back and look at all the damage you’re doing and all the people you’re hurting.”

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Our laws are based on specific accusation.  Mr Inslee has none here.  Instead he appears to think that someone might infect someone else if

• a: Every person is ignorant about contagion (That depends on whether the Washington state-run public schools taught about contagion).  
• b. Being sick is a crime. 
• c. Spreading illness when sick is an criminal act of will instead of an innocent accident. 
• d. Everyone can endure months of forced isolation without harm.

Mr Inslee must treat the people as if they were intelligent citizens rather than as menial subjects under his authority.There is no crime.  But Inslee intends to punish people and ruin their livelihood.  Inslee has us on the essential road to tyranny.  Enforcement of Inslee's edicts essentially is the terror state.

Olympia this week

The Columbian editorial board blasts Inslee for sidelining state legislators (The Columbian) 

The Columbian editorial board – once again – called on Inslee to call a special session in the wake of his latest restrictions that threaten the survival of small businesses across our state.

The editorial board writes that, since March, Inslee has “left 147 elected legislators on the sidelines, eschewing input and limiting the viewpoints that contribute to such decisions.” 

While the emergency orders were understandable at the beginning of the pandemic when little was known of the virus, Inslee’s insistence on one-man governing is inexcusable. 

Following the announcement of his latest restrictions, Inslee lamented that “all of us would like to have had the financial aspects of this totally resolved when we announced this today.” But they were not – because he refuses to call a special session. The fact that state leaders do not have the “financial aspects” worked out is –as described by the Columbian – “unconscionable.”
       
Families bear the steep costs of Inslee’s failed leadership  (Washington Policy Center)

Jay Inslee’s poor leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic began with the state’s failure to gather information about the full impact of the illness, making it impossible for the state to “take a more targeted and effective approach.” 

Unfortunately, as the Washington Policy Center’s Todd Myers writes, “the cost of that failure is now being paid by families.” Inslee dealt with the COVID-19 with massive shutdowns and restrictions – essentially, forcing people to remain in their homes and businesses to close. 

Myers writes, “It is easy to reduce the spread of the coronavirus if the cost to people and the economy is ignored.” 

Inslee’s easy solution to a complex problem inflicted heavy damage on people and businesses. As a result, Washington state now suffers from the 5th highest rate of business closures in the nation. 

Given the latest round of restrictions on small businesses and his continued refusal to call a special session, Inslee has not learned a lesson from his failed leadership.  Inslee should be recalled.
       
The Seattle Times editorial board: Focus on reopening schools  (Seattle Times)

“Strong state leadership on reopening schools safely is crucial in this moment. Right now,” writes the Seattle Times editorial board. 

The new piece points out the failures of remote learning to educate children across our state and calls on in-person learning as soon as possible. Our kids are struggling, and families cannot continue sacrificing staying home from work. 

Science is on the side of reopening schools – evidence shows elementary school classrooms “pose no greater threat of spreading this virus than the surrounding communities.” Unfortunately, state leaders have failed to take action. 

Jay Inslee’s failure to call a special session has meant lawmakers cannot push solutions like state-level legislation to establish reopening thresholds proposed by Republican Sen. John Braun.
       
Seattle passes 2021 budget, defunds police  (My Northwest)

The Seattle City Council passed its 2021 budget with the inclusion of massive cuts to the Seattle Police Department (SPD). Mayor Jenny Durkan promised to sign the new budget next week. The SPD will face a 20% reduction to their already stretched budget. 

For years, the SPD has faced staffing and resource shortages, limiting police responses to emergency calls and crimes.   With the record police officers leaving Seattle (and projections more officers will leave), Seattle Democrats severely jeopardized the safety of Seattle residents and surrounding areas. 

Yet, they are celebrating their “achievement.” Socialist Councilmember Kshama Sawant praised the “real testament to the power of that [defund the police] movement” that led Seattle Democrats’ commitment to “defunding the police by 50 percent.”
 

Washington Health Department finally agrees to settle Chelan Slidewaters appeal

On Nov. 24, with temperatures in Chelan, Wash., hovering between a high of 44 degrees and a low of 25, Washington’s Department of Health finally saw fit to drop its quest to make an example of Slidewaters.

The agency agreed to a settlement, negotiated by the Freedom Foundation, under which it would drop its original order, which carried with it the threat of hefty fines and revocation of the popular water park’s water recreation operating permits (yes, the Department of Health evidently thinks you can transmit COVID-19 through the water).

In return, Slidewaters agreed to drop its appeal of that order.

The rest of the press release is at (The Freedom Foundation)  

 

Olympia Weekly

Inslee slams responsible calls for special session following new restrictions (My Northwest)

Jay Inslee’s new COVID-19 lockdown mandates will deliver another blow to small businesses and families – but he refuses to develop the plans needed to deal with the repercussions.

Once again, Republican lawmakers called on Inslee to convene a special session. Inslee’s response was shocking. He said there is “no reason for that because he hasn’t heard anything specific coming from the Republicans to warrant a special session.”

As Rep. Drew MacEwen (R-Union) told KTTH’s Jason Rantz, Republican lawmakers have been calling for a special session since June.  Lawmakers have proposed months-worth of proposals – all of which Inslee continues to ignore.

Inslee “prefers to govern alone [speak of the tyrant],” as MacEwen told Rantz.  That’s especially unfortunate as his actions prove he is distanced from the reality of families and businesses that are struggling and have no idea how they’re going to survive.

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Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce: Inslee “out of touch”  (Yakima Herald)

Jay Inslee’s latest COVID-19 shutdown order will severely impact small businesses – that reality prompted widespread criticism.

Verlynn Best, Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, slammed Inslee as someone with “no clue what it takes to run a small business” and said his “shutdown wasn’t thought through.” Pointing to businesses owners – like restaurants and breweries – worried about the inventory they recently ordered going bad, Best said Inslee was “out-of-touch” and warned many businesses would not be able to survive the latest rounds of restrictions.

Inslee’s own administration admits that “uncertainty remains in contact tracing outbreaks” but insists that COVID-19 transmission occurs indoors where “people are unmasked, not that far apart and spend a lot of time together.”

But as Best points out, impacted businesses meet all safety guidelines, including masks, social distancing and providing hand sanitizing stations. Inslee lack of a plan adds to the uncertainty – businesses cannot trust his administration to provide stability.

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Emergencies lasting 60+ days should require special sessions (Washington Policy)  

Jay Inslee declared an emergency as a result from COVID-19 more than 260 days ago.

Inslee has been a one-man governing authority for nearly nine months, declaring emergency orders and forcing economic restrictions.

Inslee’s recent restrictions – which will severely harm small businesses and families – is just the latest example.

While state legislatures across the nation have met to deal with the repercussions of shutdowns, Inslee continues to refuse calls by Republicans lawmakers – and some Democrats – to convene a special session.

Inslee has taken over state government without any regard for the state legislature.

The Washington Policy Center’s Jason Mercier believes state lawmakers must adopt a law similar to that of states like Wisconsin which demands the involvement of the state legislature to extend a state of emergency issued by a governor lasting longer than 60 days.

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Will Jay Inslee abandon Washington state for the national stage?  (KREM2)

Despite denying his interest in joining a Biden Administration while campaigning for a rare third term as governor, speculation over Jay Inslee leaving for a national position persists.

According to national news sources, Joe Biden’s team is considering Inslee for positions like Secretary of the Interior, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and Secretary of Energy.

If Inslee does break his campaign promise and leaves for a national position, newly elected Lt. Governor Denny Heck would step up as acting governor. Heck would serve in the position until a special election takes place in November 2021.

In any event, Inslee would leave a mess of his own creation – with small businesses struggling to survive.  If Biden calls Inslee, our nation will experience how  our state has been screwed.

Freedom Foundation response to newer, tougher COVID restrictions in Washington, Oregon, and California

“The Freedom Foundation was appalled to learn about our governors’ new shutdown mandates in [the states of] Washington, Oregon and California. To think that families are being forced to spend Thanksgivings apart due to a government mandate is unimaginable in the United States. 

Not surprisingly, Governors Inslee, Brown and Newsom made no mention of their plans while they were running for office.  Dictators can’t be bothered with trifling details like telling the truth.”

“Our West Coast governors and their government bureaucrats have never missed a paycheck because of government shutdowns. The worst they have to contend with is being allowed to work from home. Meanwhile, thousands of small businesses and their employees have taken a severe hit to their finances and freedoms. This disconnect is unconscionable.”

“The Freedom Foundation will continue to fight our West Coast governors’ unlawful lockdown orders. In their minds, this has never been about health and safety. All they care about is power, and they’re not above fear-mongering to obtain more of it.”

--  Freedom Foundation

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Related article -- "West Coast Governors’ Response to COVID ‘Spike’ Is the Definition of Insanity"

Olympia report this week.

State Senate to hold virtual meetings during the 2021 legislative session (KING 5)

The Capitol building will remain closed to the public and lobbyists during the 2021 legislative session set to begin January 11th. 

Members of the state Senate will do their work during the 105-day session through both virtual meetings and on-site votes. The public will have an option to join committee hearings via Zoom. 

Democrats plan to limit the public’s ability to provide remote testimony for hearings. Committee chairs – with Democrats in complete control – have the power to decide who is allowed to speak during hearings and for how long. 

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Does Jay Inslee have dreams of a position with a Biden administration?  (Seattle Times)

While running for a rare third term as governor, Jay Inslee repeatedly insisted that he is not interested in a top position in a Joe Biden administration. 

Despite his denials, speculations are still high that Inslee is – in fact – angling for a new job as an environmental Cabinet post or White House advisor. 

Maggie Thomas – an advisor for Inslee’s failed presidential bid – is part of the Biden transition team in charge of an agency-review team for the Department of Interior. If Inslee is appointed to the position, it will be a win for the Left’s influence on an incoming Biden administration. 

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Inslee fails to reduce CO2 emissions on par with national standards (Washington Policy Center)

New numbers released as part of the state’s draft 2021 Energy Strategy relieve that Washington state’s 2018 greenhouse gas emissions saw an increase of 1.4% from 2017. 

The 2018 emissions increased to 98.9 million metric tons (MMT) CO2. The numbers are part of a steady increase.  To be exact, Washington’s CO2 emissions increased nearly 8 percent since 2012. 

Washington’s per-capita emissions decreased by a mere one percent between 2012 and 2018. Placed in perspective, per-capita CO2 emissions fell 5 percent across the entire USA from 2012 and 2017.

Despite running for president as the climate change candidate and making green policies his top priority, Jay Inslee has failed to cut CO2 emissions. The question remains whether or not he will “fail up” and receive an environmental appointment as part of Biden’s administration. 

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Internal documents reveal WA Attorney General “improperly” influences initiative titles (WA Asians for Equality)

WA Asians For Equality – an advocacy group fighting for equality for Asian Americans in Washington State – released internal documents charging that the Washington State Assistant Attorney General “knowingly and improperly re-wrote a ballot title to mollify a ‘friendly’ initiative sponsor with political connections, in violation of a ruling by a judge, while also ignoring a request for fair treatment from Asian Americans.” 

The documents make clear that the WA Attorney General’s Office exerted improper influence on determining initiative titles.

The revelations have led to an investigation by WA Senate Republicans into legislative fixes.
 

Inslee's new COVID restrictions

Sunday morning 

The biggest impact will be the closure of indoor dining at restaurants and bars. Outdoor dining and to-go service is permitted. Outdoor dining must follow the outdoor dining restriction. Table size limited to 5 for outdoor dining. These restaurant restrictions go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18.

Other restrictions are:

• In-store retail limited to 25% indoor occupancy and must close any common/congregate non-food-related seating areas. Food court indoor seating is closed.
• Indoor social gatherings from people outside your household are prohibited and outdoor social gatherings should be limited to 5 people outside your household.
• Fitness facilities and gyms are indoor operations are closed . Outdoor fitness classes may still occur but they are limited by the outdoor gathering restrictions.
• Wedding and funerals receptions are prohibited. Ceremonies are limited to no more than 30 people.
• All retail activities and business meetings are prohibited. Only professional training and testing that cannot be performed remotely is allowed. Occupancy in each meeting room is limited to 25% or 100 people, whichever is fewer.
• Movie theaters are closed for indoor service. Drive-in movie theaters are still permitted and must follow the current drive-in movie theater guidance.
• Of course, religion is restricted.  Religious services will be limited to 25% indoor occupancy & no more than 200 people, whichever is fewer. No choir, band, or ensemble shall perform during the service.
• Museums/Zoos/Aquariums are closed.

 No mention is made of any relief for people whose employment or incomes will be affected.

~~~~~~~~~

Impolite notes that Governor Inslee has no constitutional authority to impose any part of this proclamation's restrictions -- the Washington State legislature never gave him the authority.  The Washington State Constitution reacquires the legislature specify an emergency and define in general what power it is delegating to the governor.  (Washington State Constitution)

It is possible for the governor to kinda redeem himself by calling the legislature into special session.  The legislature could virtually meet via Zoom to handle the problem, if they take their constitutional responsibility seriously.

No doubt that governor will punish restaurants, businesses, churches, and so on with revocations of license to operate or occupy their buildings.  These new= acts will be illegal and will garner the state of Washington with more lawsuits (Washington state is being sued for Inslee's clumsy, illegal, 'no-exceptions' free rent edict, among others).  

Makes you wonder is Mr Inslee will personally pay for any of his illegal actions.

Will transparency in government ever win?

A Spokane appeals court judge on Sept. 18 issued what should have been a decisive ruling in Lincoln County’s four-year struggle to open contract talks between the commissioners and unions representing county employees to public scrutiny.

But because of Washington’s convoluted labor laws, it didn’t feel much like a victory.

On paper, the court sided with Lincoln County, its taxpayers and the Freedom Foundation, concluding that the Washington State Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) erred when it ruled previously that when the parties involved in collective bargaining come to an impasse over a “permissive subject” of bargaining, they must return to the status quo.

Unfortunately, the court offered no remedy, sending the case back to PERC.

And on go the perpetual legal proceedings.

In labor law, the term “permissive subject” refers to matters not directly related to the work. That is, these subjects fall outside of wages, hours and working conditions and generally are matters that relate to the nature and direction of the business/industry or relate to the internal union affairs.

And in collective bargaining, it’s considered an unfair labor practice to come to an impasse over a “permissive” subject of bargaining and use that impasse in bad faith to refuse to bargain over wages, hours and working conditions.

Whether contract negotiations in the public sector happen in the open or behind closed doors, for example, is considered a permissive subject, and the union representing workers can’t force the government to negotiate in private.

By the same token, the county can force the union to negotiate in public only if it can show that openness is a core function of government.

If a permissive subject is, by definition, not required to be negotiated — and neither side has the authority to make a determining decision about the process — you have a problem.

That’s why observers of the ongoing drama in tiny Lincoln County, Wash., were holding their breath as we waited for clarity after oral arguments were heard on Sept 18.

Would the court side with the county, the taxpayers and the Freedom Foundation, making it clear the community and its democratically elected representatives have the managerial right to negotiate publicly with taxpayers’ money?  That is, in a republican form of government, does the relationship between elected officials and the citizens who voted them to hold official positions go to the core of representative government, justifying the elected officials’ managerial control over whether the citizens should be able to see for themselves how their taxes were being spent?

Or would the court agree with Teamsters Local 690, giving a private special interest group the power to force elected officials to negotiate away our taxes while meeting in secret?

Finally, four years into a legal battle over public employee union collective bargaining transparency, the Division III of the Washington State Court of Appeals on Nov. 3 issued a ruling.

Considering the county failed to raise taxes several times and was pushing for transparency to earn the support of the public to increase revenue, it was disappointing to learn the court does not believe the authority of elected officials to require public transparency regarding taxpayers money to be “at the core of entrepreneurial control.”

Rather than concluding the public has every right to know how its tax dollars are being negotiated away and requiring negotiations be open to scrutiny, the ruling suggested bargaining sessions could still be conducted in private and either side could simply disclose after each one what happened.

Wait, what?

First of all, how many taxpayers trust elected officials on their word alone? You might have voted for someone, and you might even count on them, but there is nothing quite like verification to confirm your trust.

More importantly, what happens when the union comes out of the very same bargaining session with a completely different version of which side was unreasonable?

This isn’t idle speculation. It happens every day in both private- and public-sector contract talks.

But the real problem with the court’s ruling is that it still does not clarify who is responsible for an unfair labor practice if they insist on open or closed meetings.

(Freedom Foundation)

Olympia post election report

Washington at risk of losing more businesses (read: employers)  (Herald Net)

Boeing’s decision to move assembly of the 787 Dreamliner from Everett to South Carolina may only be the last company to leave if Democrats fail to reform their tax and regulation policies. The Democrat state legislature continually push tax increases that heavily impact businesses. Hikes in business and operation (B&O) taxes, unemployment insurance taxes, and payroll taxes make it more difficult for businesses to make ends meet. Importantly, these taxes also make Washington less competitive for businesses to locate or start-up. Next year, Democrats will push a state capital gains income tax – yet another policy that discourages businesses. It’s time for Democrats to stop their punitive policies before it’s too late.
       
Wyman re-elected as WA Secretary of State (My Northwest)

With many races still uncalled in Washington, we do know Republican Kim Wyman has been re-elected as Washington’s Secretary of State. By Friday, Wyman led Democrat opponent Gael Tarleton with 53% of the vote.

Serving as the state’s chief election officer, Wyman has run over 120 elections across the state. She also oversees registration of corporations and nonprofits, state archives, the address confidentiality program, and manages the state library.

King County passes “defund the police” measures (My Northwest)

King County voters passed two measures aimed at “defunding” the King County Sheriff’s Office. King County will be the only county in Washington State to not vote for their Sheriff.

All power will be in the hands of the Seattle-controlled King County Council. It’s important to understand Seattle voters got to vote on the charter measures despite the fact that the Sheriff’s office does not answer 911 calls in Seattle. In other words, Seattle received disproportionate influence on an issue that does not impact them.

Former King County Sheriff John Urquhart joined KIRO Radio’s Dori Monson to speak about the decision. He said, “If you like the Capitol Hill’s CHOP, you’re going to love an appointed sheriff.”
        
Voters approve Referendum 90 largely along red vs. blue county lines (Washington Policy Center)

Voters approved Referendum 90, the controversial sex education bill that teaches sexual variation to children and takes authority away from parents and local school districts.

The vote was split largely along traditionally red vs. blue county lines.  During the 2020 legislative session, majority Democrats introduced the bill and passed it without allowing public input or amendments.

Only one Democrat joined all Republicans in rejecting the bill. Sen. Brad Hawkins (R-East Wenatchee) had stated that Republicans “have significant concerns about the state mandating sex education across all 295 of our school districts. We feel that is a significant erosion of local control and that those closest to an issue like this are usually in the best position to make decisions.”

Olympia report

Washington minimum wage will increase to $13.69   (Washington Policy Center)

By January 2021, the state minimum wage – already among the highest in the nation – will increase to $13.69 per hour.

The hike is expected to impact young and entry level workers by increasing joblessness.

Increasing the minimum wage to $15 per hour in Seattle led to small business closures and lost jobs. For small businesses operating on small profit margins, the large hike in minimum wage hikes makes payroll impossible. 

Businesses will also have to contend with a change to the minimum salary threshold requiring employers to pay overtime. According to the Washington Policy Center, for non-profits and organizations that “provide services to underserved communities this means a significant number of their employees now qualify for both their salary and overtime.” 

In addition, small businesses face 550% increase in employment security taxes -- to force employers to cut jobs? (My Northwest)

The consequences of the Olympia imposed cost increases will be lost jobs in the face of an inability to make payroll.

~~~~
       
Boeing announces more job cuts  (My Northwest)

As Boeing deals with the financial fallout of two MAX crashes and the COVID-19 pandemic, more job cuts are expected. 

Boeing CEO David Calhoun told employees to “anticipate a workforce of about 130,000 employees by the end of 2021.” That means Boeing will cut nearly double the number of jobs originally expected. Washington already has seen a loss of 12,000 jobs, more cuts are expected to commercial aviation division. The news makes Democrats’ failure to keep Boeing’s 787 production in Washington – losing thousands of jobs to South Carolina – more difficult. 

~~~~

State health officials indicate schools can safely reopen  (The Daily Chronicle)

Washington state health officials have announced that “bringing students back into school buildings for in-person classes does not seem to spur significant coronavirus transmission.” Officials suggested that schools can reopen as long as “strong health and safety measures are in place.” 

The statement aligns with data across the nation indicating that opening schools does not drive up the spread of COVID-19. Health officials revealed that our state “36 coronavirus outbreaks in schools since the start of the pandemic” with 26 cases since the start of the school year. Almost all the recorded outbreaks included five or fewer cases.  

With all this data, Governor Inslee an Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal have failed  to lead strongly on this issue to get elementary grade kids back into school.  

A special legislative session to address local schools liability concerns would be helpful. But Inslee, Reykdal and legislative Democrats have refused to lead.

~~~~
       
Inslee joins western states in vaccine “pact”  (My Northwest)

Jay Inslee acted to politicize further the COVID-19 pandemic by joining in a pact with other western states to “review the safety and efficacy” of any COVID-19 vaccines – even after those vaccines pass vigorous tests to meet the standards of the Food and Drug Administration. 

Democrat-run states in the pact include Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado, and Nevada.

According to Inslee, a “panel of experts across the five states” will review each vaccine approved by the FDA. It is unclear what the “review” would be like or how long the process would take, thus delaying the administration of a vaccine. 

Inslee insists the pact increases public confidence in a vaccine. Inslee does not appear to see the irony of the obvious appearance of distrust by “leaders” like him and by the very existence of the pact. 

The politically motivated pact does more to sow seeds of doubt than instill confidence in the vaccine and will delay the administration of a working vaccine.

Why is Mr Inslee trying to delay delivery of the vaccine?  Maybe Inslee knows an effective vaccine will force him to reopen Washington and dismantle the justification of his overbearing administration

More phoney COVID restrictions

Inslee and the Democrats are trying to lock us down, claiming they are saving lives from COVID  (Washington State Department of Health).  Why can't we adults control our own lives, mindful that we have a responsibility not to  recklessly endanger our neighbors? 

Of course, enlightened advice is welcome.  But where do the authoritarian Democrats get the idea they need to order us around? 

So we are supposed to think that imprisoning people in the name of their health is morally better than the disease of authoritarian rule.

Can we compare the death rates due to a pandemic and authoritarian rule.

Lets examine the death rate due to the Spanish flu of 1917 to the death rate due to authoritarianism.  Anti-freedom politics killed as many as the flu pandemic in the 20th Century.  50-56 million lives were lost in the war against authoritarianism in  the WW2.  About 50 million people died from the flu.

~~~~~~~~

Conclusion:  Authoritarianism like the Democrats are doing is just as dangerous to human life as natural disasters like Covid 19.
 

Olympia news this week

Taxes are high. Remember to vote  (Washington Policy Center)

Democrats will be more emboldened to enact a state capital gains income tax during the 2021 legislative session.  A capital gains tax is only a precursor to a general income tax.  WashingtonsState does not have one of those, yet....

Talks about a state income tax continue to intensify – Jay Inslee is expected to include a state capital gains income tax as part of his 2021-23 budget proposal in December. 

Given the stakes, it has never been more important to vote. Election Day is a mere one week away. Remember to vote and, once you mail your ballot, check its status by visiting votewa.gov, entering your name and birthdate, and clicking on the Ballot Status button.

Just a handful of votes can mean the difference between tax-control Republicans holding a state Senate seat or losing a seat. Losing state Senate seats will have severe consequences for the future of our state. Washington.
        
Inslee insists on new taxes in exchange for affordable car tabs (Washington Policy Center)

The Washington State Supreme Court struck down voter-approved Initiative 976, meaning the $30 car tab will not stand.  Jay Inslee – a fierce opponent of the voter-approved measure – celebrated the decision. 

However, Inslee did say he is “open to reforming the car tab system.” There is an important catch – Inslee would only consider reforms “in combination with a way to replace funds that would otherwise make it impossible for us to keep our bridges from falling in the rivers and potholes taking over I-5 and keeping our buses ready.” 

In other words, Inslee will insist on spending whatever he wishes on whatever he wants, meanwhile holding highway maintenance hostage.  In Inslee's world, affordable car tabs can be offset only with new taxes on hardworking Washingtonians.  Does Governor Inslee care?
        
Kim Wyman reassured public of electoral security  (My Northwest)

Washington State Secretary of State Kim Wyman confirmed that 25% of state voters already returned their ballots for the upcoming general election as of Wednesday. 

Following an announcement by Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe, Wyman also released a statement warning of “foreign adversaries” who are “working around the clock to interfere in U.S. elections and undermine confidence in the electoral process.” 

Secretary Wyman's office is working with the Federal Department of Homeland Security and the FBI to monitor threats and ensure electoral security. 

Check your own voting status at the VoteWA website. 
        
Record number of Seattle police officers quit (My Northwest)

Seattle Democrats’ blatant hostility toward police officers has resulted in severe consequences to public safety. 

Seattle police officers are demoralized and harassed, and leaving their jobs in record numbers. Nearly 40 police officers left the Seattle Police Department in September – the average is usually 5 to 7 exits.  The number of exits is expected to increase significantly by the end of the year. 

Many officers cited the “total lack of respect and support” from Seattle Democrats as the reason for their departure. 

With crime skyrocketing and police officers leaving, residents and business owners are “begging city leaders for help.”  

Unfortunately, given Seattle Democrats’ disregard for basic public safety, that does not appear likely to happen.

Olympia report this week

State Supreme Court strikes down $30 car tabs (Seattle Times)

Nearly one year after voters passed the initiative, the Washington Supreme Court struck down I-976 to reduce car-tab taxes. The court’s decision means state and local car-tab taxes – including sky-high car tabs in counties like King County – will remain at current levels.

The court appears to have based their decision on the anti-democracy belief that voters are not smart enough to read the initiative and understand it properly. Voter passed I-976 with about 53% of the vote statewide.

Republican Sen. Steve O’Ban plans to introduce legislation to make the $30 car tab a reality during the 2021 legislative session. 

$30 car tabs would be good for the people and in line with the peoples' voting, so Good Luck! with that.
        
State spending to increase by 20% from 2017-19 (Washington Policy)

According to the Washington Policy Center’s Jason Mercier the current revenue forecast indicates state spending “will still be substantially higher than the 2017-19 budget.” With a current 2019-21 budget at $53.7 billion, forecasts project a 20% increase in spending ($9 billion) from the 2017-19 budget of $44.7 billion.

Even with a $2 billion reduction in spending to balance the state budget, “state spending would still be increasing by 16% from 2017-19 levels. Taxes are going to increase.

Of course, Jay Inslee and Democrats refuse to convene a special session despite the pressing problem they created with their out-of-control tax-and-spend approaches. But, as Mercier points out, with smart budgeting tactics, all hope is not lost.
        
Report calls state’s Employment Security Department a “failure” (My Northwest)

Working Washington – a left of center group – agrees that the state Employment Security Department (ESD) is a bureaucratic failure in a new report. 

Bureaucratic incompetence has resulted in 20,000 people still waiting to see if they qualified for unemployment benefits. 

With so many out of work due to COVID-19 shutdowns, many Washingtonians have been struggling to meet day-to-day expenses. 

Their struggles have been made worse by months long incompetence by the state Employment Security Department (ESD). 

Of course, the ESD has yet to face any accountability for losing hundreds of millions in taxpayer dollars to preventable fraud.

It remains unlikely that Jay Inslee and his fellow Democrats will lift a finger to address major issues exhibited by the Employment Security Department government agency.
        
Attacks on Seattle police officers intensify (My Northwest)

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) has arrested a suspect who set fire to a police vehicle while an officer was still inside. The officer was transported to Harborview Medical Center with non-life-threatening burns. 

It’s clear that – due to Democrats’ disrespect of law enforcement – criminals are emboldened to attack police officers openly.

Of course, Seattle Democrats have already defunded the SPD. Their plan reduces the force by 100 police officers, cuts wages, and even eliminates Navigation Teams, resources dedicated to managing and assisting the homeless population.

Democrats & Socialists’ move to defund the police occurred despite severe shortages in police resources.

Washington State imPolite ballot recommendations

America's free and open elections are part of the promise of this country.  We ought to cast our ballot carefully and wisely.

We the People have the right to hold political opinion that may vary from our leaders.  We have the right to assemble and freedom of the press so we can make our opinion heard.  We have the right to be armed so we can protect ourselves from those who might clamp down on our freedom. Tolerance of dissent is required.

The election process is far neater than the alternative of mob rule.  Free elections are better than a totalitarian election, which are no choice at all.

We must guard against believing in our elected leaders too much.  Candidates who offer bliss and love cannot possibly be able to deliver.  Evaluate your candidates carefully.

We have.  Washington State Impolite recommends these votes:

State Election

Loren Culp, for Governor.  To work for the People, not Jay Inslee's special interests.

Joshua Freed, write-in for Lieutenant Governor.  To stop raising taxes, help those afflicted by drug addiction and focus on trade and economic development

Matt Larkin, for Attorney General.    To keep our communities safe.  Bob Ferguson has done a lousy job.

Kim Wyman, for Secretary of State.  Incumbent : She has 27 years of integrity keeping election results secure.

Duane Davidson, for State Treasurer.  Incumbent: Davidson has a long career as a public treasurer and government financ.

Chris Leyba, for Auditor.  Leyba has 11-year experience as police detective and law enforcement auditor

Maia Espinoza, for Superintendent of Public Instruction.  Washington State  must act now for genuine innovation in public education.

Sue Kuehl Pederson, for Public Lands Commissioner.  Pederson's qualifying experience includes  Fisheries Biologist, UW, NOAA Fisheries, Army Corps of Engineers (WA, OR, AK); Power Manager, Grays Harbor PUD; Senior Power Analyst, Seattle City Light; Senior Environmental Analyst, Seattle City Light; Research Scientist/Publications Manager, BioSonics, Inc.

Washington State Supreme Court Judges

Impolite's recommends the replacement of the entire panel of incumbents judges on the Washington Supreme Court. But only two judgeships are contested, so only those have Impolite recommendations.   

The full court reversed the People's decision to reduce car tabs (KING5), stating the People were "confused" about the meaning of the initiate.  Thus the entire, existing panel took an intolerable position against democracy.  According to them, we the People are confused by our own policies.

David Larson (not the incumbent) for Position 3 

Richard Serms (not the incumbent) for Position 6

State Referendum

Reject R 90 ("reject" is a no vote) -- Protect children as young as Kindergarten from exposure to "comprehensive" sex education -- most five year olds are too young to comprehend.  Sex education should not be taught to children younger than about 13 or 14 years.

There is more about R 90  at Ballotpedia.  Also see the Courier-Herald editorial. 

Other state ballot measures 

Impolite is against pointless tax increases which seem designed only to increase misery on people.

Impolite urges that on Advisory Vote 32, S 32, the retail bag tax, be Repealed;
on Advisory Vote 33, heavy equipment rental tax be Repealed;
on Advisory Vote 34 the increase tax on Business and Occupancy be Repealed;
on Advisory Vote 35, the increased tax on aircraft production be Repealed.  This increase in production taxes is probably the reason why Boeing is taking some aircraft production out of state. Bye-bye jobs.

The proposed constitutional amendment, SJR 8212, should be rejected.  SJR 8212 would allow the state to own private assets via funds the private legislators in fact control.  This is the clear path to corruption.

Federal Election

President

Donald J. Trump, incumbent.  This is his list of promises made, & promises kept.

US House of Representatives

Jaime Herrera Beutler, for 3rd district, incumbent congresswoman.
Dan Newhouse, for 4th district, incumbent.  President Trump recently signed Dan Newhouse's Bill to protect indigenous women
Jesse Jansen, for 8th district.  Values of family, community, and hard work.
Cathy McMorris Rodgers, for 5th district.  Incumbent and proven representative for Eastern Washington

Democrats still won't debate

Democrats are trying to deny Washingtonians the time-honored opportunity to hear directly from them in a live debate.

First, Governor Jay Inslee refused to debate in person and now Kim Schrier is flat-out ignoring Jesse Jensen’s multiple attempts to schedule a debate.

We all know that a debate is the best way to stack up candidates’ visions and platforms so you can decide who best represents you before you cast your ballot – and after what we’ve seen from Democrats so far, I can’t say I am surprised they are afraid to defend their radical record.

We want safety and security, but Democrats want to defund the police.

We want transparency and limited government, but Democrats want to pass bills raising taxes in the middle of the night.

We want what’s good for our communities, but Democrats only want what’s good for them and their special interests.

-- Kyle Fischer

Olympia News this week.

Small businesses face 550% increase in employment security taxes -- to force jobs cut? (My Northwest)

This is truly bizarre Washington State government action.  Washington state businesses face a possible five-fold increase in the standard unemployment taxes on employees’ wages. This will threaten jobs.

The Association of Washington Business (AWB) warned that the “burden will likely fall hardest on the small shops and restaurants that are already trying to dig themselves out of the COVID-19 hole.”

In fact, the amount small businesses pay in employment security taxes would multiply by 550%. With businesses across our state are struggling to stay alive, the AWB is asking Governor Jay Inslee to put CARES Act dollars into the Unemployment Trust Fund instead of raising unemployment taxes.

Unfortunately, Inslee has already said he has other plans for the CARES Act money ("screw the people").
       
Inslee lied about special session, gets needed fact-check (Seattle Times)

The Seattle Times documented Gov. Inslee lying about Washington state Republicans allegedly wanting to come into special session to cut health care.

Inslee used the lie to say he was justified not to call a special session.  Actually, Republicans fully documented their special session plan and there was not a word about health care in it.  And, as far as being “fully justified” for not calling a special session, WA state faces a $4B deficit.  We need a special session to address this deficit.

After Inslee lied first to get elected Governor when he said he would not raise taxes, Inslee turned into a taxaholic not hardly able to turn down any proposed taxes.  It would be best to get the legislature in before Inslee’s almost certain taxapalooza.
       
Inslee admits he lied, knew about CHAZ/CHOP  (FOXNews)

During the first and only gubernatorial debate with Republican candidate Loren Culp, Jay Inslee contradicted his earlier claims on CHAZ – specifically, concerning when knew about the lawless takeover of several city blocks in Seattle.

Inslee made national news when he claimed during a June press conference, “That’s news to me, so I’ll have to reserve any comment about it. I have not heard anything about that.”

When questioned about his ignorance by debate moderator Brandi Kruse, Inslee claimed he “could not have been oblivious” to CHAZ because he “deployed the Washington State national guard.”

Pressed by Kruse, Inslee eventually admitted he lied saying, “Listen, I knew about CHOP. That’s why we had state troopers ready to respond at the city’s request.”
       
Inslee comes in last on governor performance ranking (KIRO Radio)

The Cato Institute released its annual report card on U.S. governors. Unsurprisingly, Inslee ranked number 50 in the nation.

Inslee’s dead-last ranking comes as a result of his obsession with increasing taxes, including imposing a “higher energy taxes, capital gains tax to raise a billion a year, tobacco tax that mainly lands on lower-income folks, [and a] Business and Occupation tax.”

According to the CATO Institute’s Chris Edwards, “On taxes and spending, Jay Inslee has been the worst governor in the United States for many years. It’s really unfortunate for Washington’s economy and for citizens.”
       
State Supreme Court throws out petition to recall Mayor Durkan (Seattle Times)

The Washington State Supreme Court ended an effort to recall Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan before the petition could move into the signature-gathering phase. The unanimous decision stated that charges presented against Durkan were “factually and legally insufficient.”

So, what were the charges? According to the Seattle Times, petitioners “blamed Durkan for the Seattle Police Department’s broad use of tear gas in early June, following widespread protests against police brutality and systemic racism.”

Meanwhile, Durkan has yet to face any accountability for the deadly, disastrous “Summer of Love” in Seattle’s CHAZ/CHOP.

Referendum 90 - sex ed for 5 year olds?

Referendum  90 would promote sexualized teaching to children as young as Kindergartners.  The somewhat confusing ballot measure in Washington State will directly impact the safety and well-being of school children (FPI).

Back in March, the Washington State Senate voted to mandate comprehensive sex education for all public schoolers, starting in kindergarten, with explicit conversations about sexuality and sexual behavior to start in fourth grade.

Supporters said that, since kids are getting sex ed from the internet anyway, they might as well learn it in the classroom (The News Tribune). The confusion is that passing Referendum 90 would approve the sex-ed mandate.

So, Washington parents and anyone else who thinks 10-year-olds should not be taught a so-called “LGBTQ-inclusive” sex ed curriculum, should vote no on Referendum 90.

~~~~~~~~

 

Special session needed to deal with financial mess

Legislative Republicans are calling for a special session to address the impacts of Boeing's departure and to talk about the priority of getting kids back to school.

With Boeing’s recent announcement that they will, in fact, be moving their 787 Dreamliner production to South Carolina, please join us to discuss the implications that this will have on our state, as well as continue the discussion on the growing back to school concerns during COVID-19.

• How Boeing’s move will be detrimental to the Everett community and Washington’s economy as a whole.

• How to go about helping the 1000+ people who will lose their jobs in these already trying times.

• Why Governor Inslee bears part of the responsibility due to lack of willingness to make Washington a more business-friendly environment.

• Why our aerospace industry is at risk and Inslee mugged the taxpayers to further his own agenda.

• What we need to do to reassure the companies that we still have, not to follow suit.

• How we will go about filling the gaps with other business opportunities in WA.

• Further discuss parents’ concerns with getting their children back to school, childcare, homeschooling, access to internet, etc.

Olympia news this week

Boeing to move 787 Dreamliner production to South Carolina [KING5]

Boeing will relocate all production of the 787 Dreamliner from Everett to South Carolina starting in 2021. Boeing’s decision to move comes after more than a decade of assembling the Dreamliner in Snohomish County.

Stan Deal, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, stated, “As our customers manage through the unprecedented global pandemic, to ensure the long-term success of the 787 program, we are consolidating 787 production in South Carolina.” South Carolina’s business-friendly environment offers further incentive for the move. Washington Democrats’ consistent threats to raise taxes – and introduce new taxes – and uncontrolled unrest creates a volatile environment for businesses like Boeing.

The loss of Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner delivers another blow to the state’s budget shortfall, making a special session more critical than ever before. According to the Seattle Times, Jay Inslee reacted bitterly to the news and Snohomish County Democrat leaders called his comments “divisive.”
       
Domestic violence homicides nearly doubles in King County from previous year [KUOW]

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March, the number and severity of domestic violence cases nearly doubled in comparison to 2019.

Tragically, 13 people have died due to domestic violence homicide. The Bellevue Police Department reports a 28% increase in felony domestic violence cases from the previous year. The Seattle Police Department has experienced a 21% increase domestic violence reports since the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Democrats are pushing to “defund the police.” Instead, Democrats want to send social workers into dangerous domestic violence situations – notably nearly 40% of police officer deaths occur during domestic violence calls.

Seattle successfully defunded the SPD, leading to a significant loss of police officers. After already eliminating millions from their budget, Democrats on the King County Council are pushing to defund the King County Sheriff’s Office via two charter amendments – voters will decide this November.
       
Employment Security Department moves to resolve unemployment appeals after public backlash [MyNorthwest]

Jay Inslee’s Office claims that the number of people waiting on unemployment appeals at the state Employment Security Department (ESD) went from 20,000 to 4,000 last month.

A nonprofit is suing the ESD for people denied unemployment for months without receiving updates on their appeals. According to attorneys, ESD’s recent shift action appears to be the result of increased public scrutiny. One attorney stated that the ESD Commissioner Susan LeVine “did not perform her duty and the hardship was born by hardworking eligible claimants… financial catastrophe was born by ESD and the impacts have been grave for so many, it is unconscionable.”

The ESD has yet to face any accountability for massive failures, including a preventable security breach that lost hundreds of millions and jeopardized the identities of thousands. Democrats are afraid to discipline Levine as she has been a massive fundraiser for Inslee, Senate Democrats and other left-wing candidates. Money talks. Accountability walks.
       
Snohomish County Democrat calls for physical attacks on law enforcement [770KTTH]

On her Facebook account, Democrat Snohomish County Council member Megan Dunn posted a “good reminder” to use Molotov cocktails as attacks on law enforcement surge. Dunn deleted the post after facing public backlash.

The Everett Police Officers Association (EPOA) called on Dunn to apologize and resign. EPOA stated, “Promoting violence/murder against our LE professionals and destruction of our communities is NOT acceptable from anyone. It is a crime.” Dunn’s shocking attack is the latest example of Washington Democrats’ hostility toward law enforcement. 

Also...

The King County Executive Dow Constantine will defund the King County Sheriff’s Office by $6.2 million. Approximately 30 deputies will lose their jobs. About 100 police officers will lose their jobs as a result of defunding the Seattle Police Department.

Icky Inslee's Maggot

Jay Inslee brought maggot-infested homegrown apples to families impacted by wildfires in Douglas County.  By transporting apples from maggot-infested Western Washington to a maggot-free agricultural zone, Inslee broke the law. (Seattle PI)

The Chelan-Douglas Horticultural Pest and Disease Board is now taking quick action, looking to locate Inslee's maggot-infested apples to prevent an infestation. County officials stated, "Apple Maggots are an incredibly serious pest and could have dire consequences for the orchardists of Douglas County if we are unable to find the infected apples and mitigate the effects immediately."

Inslee called the dire mistake a "good reminder of the importance of awareness around apple quarantine." To be clear, Washington produces 70% of the nation's apples. Our state's governor should be well aware of top agricultural concerns – especially when Douglas and Chelan counties have worked tirelessly through the years to ensure the health of orchards.

Rather than pay attention to our state's challenges, Inslee prefers to squeeze himself into the national limelight. Between his embarrassing bid for President to his unproductive bickering with the President, Inslee doesn't have much time for the concerns of hardworking families in Washington state.

It's time to elect leaders who care – leaders who will hold Inslee accountable and protect our communities.

Olympia Week

 ESD paid fraudulent claims filed under own workers’ stolen identities (KREM Television)

A KING 5 investigation discovered that Washington’s Employment Security Department paid unemployment claims made under the stolen identities of its own employees. It’s important to note, the agency’s fraud detection software is so weak it even failed to capture fraudulent claims made by its own employees. The ESD admits to dialing back “automated security measures in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.” The lax security and large amount of unemployment payments made Washington state a prime target for fraud. Taxpayer losses were estimated to be $650 million. Only about half was recovered.

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Boeing may move 787 Dreamliner production to South Carolina (My Northwest)

In a matter of weeks, Boeing may move the 787 production line from Everett. Production of the 787 Dreamliner would move to South Carolina. Boeing’s move – according to sources – is close to a “done deal.” Snohomish County launched the “Better With Boeing” campaign in hopes of persuading the state’s largest employer to keep production in Washington. Boeing’s move would mean thousands of lost jobs and revenue for Washington state. Of course, decades of Democrat control have created an unfriendly business environment. Along with their hostility, Democrats’ consistent push for higher and higher taxes places our state at a competitive disadvantage.

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Seattle moves forward with plans to defund the SPD  (The Federalist)

The Seattle City Council voted to overrule vetoes made by Mayor Jenny Durkan and will defund the Seattle Police Department (SPD) as planned. The plan will “reduce the police force by 100 officers, cut wages of police commanders, and redirect millions of dollars to other public programs.” The cuts will also eliminate SPD’s Navigation Teams, resources dedicated to managing and assisting the homeless population. For years, SPD has experienced severe strains. Limited resources have resulted in long response times (or no response times, depending on the crime). Meanwhile, crime continues to rise in Seattle.

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Wildfires present yet another reason for Inslee to call a special session (770 KTTH)

GOP Sen. Judy Warnick recently spoke to KTTH’s Jason Rantz about the wildfires in Eastern Washington. Many Washingtonians are still struggling with the consequences of the devastating wildfires. Lincoln, Douglas, Grant, and Okanogan Counties are all facing significant loss of pastures lands and homes. The counties are seeking support for a FEMA designation – Jay Inslee already designated support for Whitman county. Given our state’s extreme budget shortfall, Warnick and fellow Republican senators are also asking Inslee to call a special legislative session to help with recovery efforts.

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2020 has been a tough year, and Governor Jay Inslee (D) has not made it any easier.

The latest failure of Inslee’s leadership to harm the lives of Washingtonians? Preventable wildfires.

Inslee blames the massive wildfires on climate change. But according to experts, wildfires are the result of poor forest management practices. Solutions include thinning forests through “logging, prescribed burns and (later) allowing naturally occurring fires to be managed instead of extinguished.”

The 2020 wildfires have cost lives, homes, and livelihoods. Yet, Inslee refuses to acknowledge reality. UW Atmospheric Science Professor Cliff Mass called Inslee’s climate change assertions “180 degrees of wrong.”  He points out the easterly winds that create massive fires weaken under climate change, lessening risks of rapid spread (KIRO).

Smart forest management prevents air pollution, saves taxpayer dollars, brings more revenue to the government, and – most importantly – saves lives.

Of course, that would leave Inslee without his yearly climate change talking points.

It’s time to put a stop to careless governance.