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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
This past Tuesday, Gov. Inslee announced that the Legislature would be entering into a third special session beginning yesterday. According to the Governor, the purpose of this special session is to ensure that Boeing will produce its 777x here in Washington state. However, the Governor has also proposed tying this package to:
? A transportation revenue package, which includes a potential 10 cent gas tax increase.
? An extension of all Boeing’s tax incentives until 2040.
? Education and workforce development investments and trainings.
? Streamlined permitting processes for manufacturers.
? Increased water quality regulations due to flawed fish consumption study.
Since Tuesday Boeing has publicly stated that the company plans to stay in Washington regardless of the efforts in the Legislature once it reaches a deal with the Machinist union next week. Specifically, they do not mention any transportation package as a portion of the agreement.
While myself and my colleagues support keeping Boeing here in our state, I do not support the Governor’s efforts to tie the Boeing contract to his proposed gas tax increase.
There are many businesses in the Spokane region that exist because of Boeing. Our efforts this session will not only be concerned with keeping Boeing’s business in Washington state, but also protecting small businesses across Eastern Washington that rely on commerce with Boeing.
As a small business owner and the Ranking Republican on the Business and Financial Services Committee, my hope is that this special session’s focus will shift to creating a better business climate overall in Washington state. While it is important for our economy that we make these tax and regulatory reforms for large companies like Boeing, it is even more imperative to include these reforms for Washington’s small businesses.
Thank you for allowing me to represent you during this special session.
Sincerely,
Kevin Parker
