KNDO/KNDU Tri-Cities, Yakima, WA | Possible tax increase could hurt workers
Member Center:
As legislators wrestle with the state budget shortfall, the Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Washington Policy Center want lawmakers to recognize the effects a possible tax hike could have on local businesses, and jobs that could be lost.
According to a recent study by Washington Research Council, increasing the state Business and Occupation tax (B&O) by $1 billion would eliminate up to 15,072 jobs. A $2.6 billion B&O tax increase would cost 38,968 Washingtonian's their jobs.
"With some of our small businesses, if posed with the sales tax increase or B&O tax increase, it could make it more difficult for them to compete with Oregon business and even Internet business," Colin Hastings, Public Policy Director at the Regional Chamber of Commerce said.
Other tax boosts on cigarettes or candy could come into play also, but Hastings says those taxes won't have as much of an impact. It's the possible multi-billion dollar B&O, or sales tax that could bring down local workers.
Comments Terms of Use: We welcome your participation in our community. Please keep your comments civil and on point. You must be at least 13 years of age to post comments. By submitting a comment, you agree to these
Terms of Service
You must be logged in to leave a comment. Login or register See all comments |
The Washington Department of Transportation has added apps for iPhone and Android users to get up-to-the-minute travel information.
Yakima County may be easing up on gun laws, but the city of Yakima has cracked down on major crime.
Island Camp Campground in Yakima County near Glenwood, northwest of Goldendale, has been closed due to a budget shortfall.
The Yakima Valley is being featured in the September issue of Seattle Met magazine.
The former Yakima police deputy chief has qualified as a write-in candidate in the upcoming November election.
The Washington Department of Transportation has added apps for iPhone and Android users to get up-to-the-minute travel information.
Richland police are warning about an on-going check fraud scam.
A young girl is recovering tonight after getting hit by a truck after the last school bell rang.
Graffiti is popping up more and more in one East Kennewick neighborhood.
School administrators throughout the tri-cities already have plans to deal with a significant increase in students.
