Income Tax Raises Fears of Business & Capital Exodus + Patty Murray Vows to Block Trump’s AG Pick

DocuSign co-founder Court Lorenzini is speaking out about Washington state's new 9.9% income tax and backing Initiative 645, the November ballot measure seeking to repeal the tax. Lorenzini tells The Center Square that he plans to remain in Washington, but says some friends have already left the state because of the new income tax. He argues that Washington's tax environment could also influence where entrepreneurs, investors and businesses decide to locate, invest and create jobs. Washington's new income tax takes effect January 1, 2028 and applies to individuals and married couples filing jointly with annual adjusted gross income exceeding $1 million. The first returns will be due in 2029. Also in today's Washington in Focus, concerns over crime, homelessness and business closures are fueling a debate over Spokane's approach to homelessness. Independent journalist Kevin Dahlgren traveled to Spokane to examine complaints surrounding homelessness programs and the Housing First model. Urbanna Natural Spa owner Linda Biel has blamed crime and disorder around nearby homeless housing for contributing to her decision to close her business. The segment examines criticism of Catholic Charities Eastern Washington, the Housing First model and the effects business owners say crime and street disorder are having on Spokane. It also looks at Union Gospel Mission's recovery-focused approach to homelessness. And President Donald Trump has nominated Pete Serrano to serve as U.S. attorney for the Western District of Washington. Washington Sen. Patty Murray has announced her opposition to Serrano and says she will use every tool available to block his nomination. Washington GOP Chair Jim Walsh discusses his view that the nomination could also force a larger confrontation over the Senate's blue-slip process. Today's episode covers three major Washington developments: the fight over Washington's new income tax and Initiative 645, the debate over homelessness and business closures in Spokane, and the renewed battle over Pete Serrano's U.S. attorney nomination. Follow Washington in Focus and The Center Square for continuing coverage of Washington state government, taxes, the economy, homelessness, public safety and government accountability. Want the next important update by text? Get the Washington state government and policy developments worth your attention sent straight to your phone. Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016 or sign up here: https://joinsubtext.com/c/thecentersq... Msg & data rates may apply. #WashingtonState #IncomeTax #I645 #DocuSign #Spokane #HousingFirst #Homelessness #PeteSerrano #PattyMurray #WashingtonBusiness #WashingtonNews #TheCenterSquare #WashingtonInFocus