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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Last week, I discussed our state revenue forecast, our fragile economic recovery and what this means for our state budget. While most of the debate from now until the end of the legislative session will be on how to reduce the size and costs of state government, we must also focus on the other side of the budget equation: revenue.
If we can get Washington working again, it will ease financial burdens on families, individuals and government. It will also increase revenue. This starts by addressing the concerns of our Main Street employers. State lawmakers took an important step by passing unemployment insurance reforms that have been signed into law, and I'm hopeful workers' compensation reform will also pass.
I am also supporting four other solutions that I feel would help strengthen our economy and create jobs:
- House Bill 1961 would require permitting decisions within 90 days. This would send the right message to any business that is looking to expand in – or locate to – our state.
- House Bill 1156 would provide a moratorium on new rule making. This would take what the governor has done through an executive order and strengthen it. Citizens, businesses and local governments would benefit greatly from this regulatory relief.
- House Bill 1672 would double the small business B&O tax credit. This would encourage small business job creation and provide incentives to entrepreneurs.
- House Bill 1388 would delay certain changes to the state energy code. This would help reduce the cost of new homes and help our struggling construction industry.
I talk about these bills in more detail in my video update (2:41) this week. Please click on the picture above or here to watch it. I am also advocating for other legislation that would help get Washington working again. Please contact me if you'd like more information.
We will talk again soon. Have a great weekend.
Sincerely,
Kevin Parker
