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Budget/Taxes


Issues - Budget/Taxes
Two Clever Maneuvers Could Blow a $335 Million Hole in Budget
Two Clever Maneuvers Could Blow a $335 Million Hole in Budget
Lawmakers blur the line between taxes and fees and beg for trouble. Hospitals and liquor interests mull challenges that could scuttle the budget.
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Main Event of 2011 Legislature is About to Begin – Capitol Abuzz About Budget Tricks, Possible Moves on State Employees
Main Event of 2011 Legislature is About to Begin – Capitol Abuzz About Budget Tricks, Possible Moves on State Employees
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 14, 2011

How are they gonna stuff that big fat state budget into an itty-bitty Volkswagen? It's gonna take magic, that's for sure. And the fun starts Thursday.
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Will Democrats Go for the ‘25th Month?’ – the Most Notorious Budget Trick of All Time?
Will Democrats Go for the ‘25th Month?’ – the Most Notorious Budget Trick of All Time?
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Jan. 28, 2011

What if you could make the state's budget problems go away -- poof, just like that? It can be done -- but heaven help the state if lawmakers try it.
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Republican Senators Declare War on Welfare Cheats – They Say DSHS Doesn’t Sweat the Small Stuff
Republican Senators Declare War on Welfare Cheats – They Say DSHS Doesn’t Sweat the Small Stuff
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Jan. 21, 2010

Republicans are demanding a crackdown on welfare fraud -- a job they say the Department of Social and Health Services just isn't doing.
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Legislature Opens for One of the Messiest, Most Bruising Sessions in State History
Legislature Opens for One of the Messiest, Most Bruising Sessions in State History
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Jan. 10, 2011

This session is going to be one of the wildest the state has ever seen -- just wait until everything breaks down and Republicans have their say!
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Tort Reform Could Save State Big Money – and a Battle May be Quietly Brewing
Tort Reform Could Save State Big Money – and a Battle May be Quietly Brewing
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Jan. 4, 2011

Tort reform is the biggest idea this year from the office of Attorney General Rob McKenna, but you count on opposition from the state's trial lawyers.
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Worker’s Comp Program Insolvent, Says State Auditor’s Report – State-Run Program Needs Big Increase to Remain Sound, it Says
Worker’s Comp Program Insolvent, Says State Auditor’s Report – State-Run Program Needs Big Increase to Remain Sound, it Says
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Dec. 31, 2010

A new report from the state auditor says a big chunk of the state worker's compensation program is insolvent, and another big part is heading that way.
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State Workers Agree to Temporary 3 Percent Pay Cut – in the Form of Unpaid Leave
State Workers Agree to Temporary 3 Percent Pay Cut – in the Form of Unpaid Leave
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Dec. 15, 2010

Looks like the unions won big in this year's contract talks, despite the state's financial nightmare. State workers have agreed to take a few hours off each month without a pay -- a pay cut that doesn't require a permanent salary reductio...
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Now That Was Fast! – Lawmakers Pass $788.4 Million in Spending Reductions During Zippy Special Session
Now That Was Fast! – Lawmakers Pass $788.4 Million in Spending Reductions During Zippy Special Session
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Dec. 11, 2011

Lawmakers were singing hosannas of bipartisanship as they held a quick special session to make emergency cuts in the state budget. Democrats and Republicans cooperated for once as they did the easy stuff -- but they still have another $5 ...
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To Save Big Money, Governor Promises to Put the Screws on Pensions
To Save Big Money, Governor Promises to Put the Screws on Pensions
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Dec. 13, 2010

Just wait for the screams from the retirees! Gov. Christine Gregoire proposes ending automatic increases for the state's oldest pensioners.
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Special Session Set for First Thing Saturday – Lawmakers Will Whack Spending $784 Million
Special Session Set for First Thing Saturday – Lawmakers Will Whack Spending $784 Million
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Dec. 9, 2010

That takes care of about 14 percent of the state's whopping $5.7 billion budget problem. But hey, it's a start, right? Subdued Democratic leaders, facing a threat by the governor to call them back no matter what, said they managed to reach...
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House Dems Finally Come Up With Budget-Cut List
House Dems Finally Come Up With Budget-Cut List
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Dec. 3, 2010

At long last, House Democrats release their list of spending-cut proposals -- and appear to heed the governor's warning that the state's budget problems are urgent and dire. But we're still waiting on the Senate Dems, and there's no word y...
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Special Session Talk Becoming a Standoff – Will the Governor Get Tough and Call Lawmakers Back?
Special Session Talk Becoming a Standoff – Will the Governor Get Tough and Call Lawmakers Back?
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Dec. 2, 2010

Legislative Dems seem strangely unenthusiastic about helping their governor whack the budget -- one of the state's biggest-ever emergencies.
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Worker Comp Taxes to Rise Average 12 Percent Next Year – Still Not Enough to Cover Costs
Worker Comp Taxes to Rise Average 12 Percent Next Year – Still Not Enough to Cover Costs
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Nov. 10, 2010

Steep increases in worker comp taxes, coupled with everything else in store for 2011, mean bad juju for business -- and the fund still is in trouble.
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Special Session Talk in the Air
Special Session Talk in the Air
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Nov. 5, 2010

Deep cuts now seem the only way out of the state's $5 billion budget hole, and Republicans are calling for a swift special session. The governor says she's thinking the idea over. But no word from legislative Democrats, who have the final ...
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Senate Republican Leader Mike Hewitt Offers Advice to Legislature: Act Fast
Senate Republican Leader Mike Hewitt Offers Advice to Legislature: Act Fast
Special to Washington State Wire | Nov. 3, 2010

The success of anti-tax ballot measures on Tuesday's ballot mean lawmakers need to act fast to prevent huge problems next year. With passage of I-1107, the state's shortfall now approaches $5 billion, and I-1053 means lawmakers will have to cons...
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Federal Health Care Reform Will Cost State $86 Million – And That’s Just for Starters
Federal Health Care Reform Will Cost State $86 Million – And That’s Just for Starters
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Nov. 1, 2010

Everyone said health care reform was going to drive insurance costs up, and now the first bill is coming due. But get this -- part of it goes to the state. A new requirement that allows parents to enroll their adult children will drive up ...
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Same Old Story at DSHS – When Cuts Come, They Whack the Needy, Not the Overhead
Same Old Story at DSHS – When Cuts Come, They Whack the Needy, Not the Overhead
By: William W. Larson | Special to Washington State Wire | Oct. 8, 2010

In this op-ed piece, William W. Larson points out that the new round of cuts at the Department of Social and Health Services go precisely where they shouldn't. There's plenty of fat that can be trimmed at the top before t...
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More than 6,400 Budget-Cutting Ideas From State Employees – Stay Tuned for Some Eye-Openers
More than 6,400 Budget-Cutting Ideas From State Employees – Stay Tuned for Some Eye-Openers
By Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Oct. 1, 2010

Two state senators are asking state employees how to cut the budget, and they're getting a huge response -- better than the governor got with a public appeal last summer. Staff says there are some doozies in that suggestion box. And the who...
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DSHS Makes Up for Staff Cuts With Huge Overtime Payments – Nearly 10,000 Hours in July
DSHS Makes Up for Staff Cuts With Huge Overtime Payments – Nearly 10,000 Hours in July
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Sept. 29, 2010

A whopping mistake in an overtime report leads the largest public employee union to a remarkable conclusion. And are furloughs saving any money?
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Unemployment Taxes to Rise Average 38 Percent Next Year, Says Employment Security
Unemployment Taxes to Rise Average 38 Percent Next Year, Says Employment Security
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Sept. 24, 2010

Another big increase in unemployment insurance taxes is on the way for next year, on the heels of the big increase that took effect this year. You can blame the recession. But it means a doubling of unemployment taxes in just two years -...
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Property Tax Reduction 'Not a Huge Factor' in I-1098, Gates Admits
Property Tax Reduction 'Not a Huge Factor' in I-1098, Gates Admits
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Sept. 20, 2010

Open mouth, insert foot -- Bill Gates, Sr., the leading spokesman for the state's income tax ballot measure, appears to undercut one of the campaign's biggest arguments.
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Problem in State’s Math Makes Cuts Much Deeper Than 6.3 Percent
Problem in State’s Math Makes Cuts Much Deeper Than 6.3 Percent
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Sept. 18, 2010

Those new across-the-board cuts are at least eight percent, maybe even nine. That's huge -- and it explains the GOP call for a special session.
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Can’t Stop That Recession! – Gloomy Tax Forecast Triggers Immediate Cuts, and $4.5 Billion Shortfall Looms Next Year
Can’t Stop That Recession! – Gloomy Tax Forecast Triggers Immediate Cuts, and $4.5 Billion Shortfall Looms Next Year
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Sept. 16, 2010

Everyone knew it was coming, and now it's here -- the next round in the state's budget nightmare. Lawmakers counted on recovery and it never happened.
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Governor Counting On Really, Really Bad News Thursday – And Great Big Budget Cuts
Governor Counting On Really, Really Bad News Thursday – And Great Big Budget Cuts
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Sept. 14, 2010

The governor says the state is likely to run more than a half-billion dollars short when the next tax-revenue forecast is issued later this week -- worse than anyone thought. She issued an executive order Monday directing state agencies ...
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I-1098 Fraud Case Heads to Court – Patrol Confirms Washington State Wire Story
I-1098 Fraud Case Heads to Court – Patrol Confirms Washington State Wire Story
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Sept. 15, 2010

It's Claudia McKinney, all right. But the most interesting thing about the investigation is that it reveals SEIU paid members to circulate petitions.
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Pension Ruling Means Another $250 Million Hit on State Budget Next Year
Pension Ruling Means Another $250 Million Hit on State Budget Next Year
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Sept. 13, 2010

Just when it seemed as though the news from Olympia wasn't bad enough, a judge has ruled that a "gain-sharing" pension benefit granted to state employees years ago cannot be revoked. You can add it to the $3 billion shortfall the state f...
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State’s Offer an Insult, Says Employees Union
State’s Offer an Insult, Says Employees Union
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Aug. 26, 2010

The state and its public employee unions drew even firmer lines when they met behind closed doors this week. The state now wants workers to pick up 26 percent of the cost of their health-insurance premiums -- another big bite from paychec...
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Public-Employee Unions Headed for Showdown in This Year’s Contract Talks
Public-Employee Unions Headed for Showdown in This Year’s Contract Talks
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Aug. 23, 2010

Public employee unions say they've had enough of concessions after two years of labor unrest -- and they aren't going to budge on health benefits.
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Let’s Reinvent State Government and Start with DSHS
Let’s Reinvent State Government and Start with DSHS
Who says there's no fat left to cut at the state's largest agency? Washington State Wire presents an insider's view of DSHS.
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Chance of Special Session Diminishes With Senate Vote
Chance of Special Session Diminishes With Senate Vote
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Aug. 4, 2010

A preliminary vote on a $26 billion Medicaid bill for once offers good news for the state. The U.S. Senate Wednesday morning finally said yes to the measure, which means $480 million for the state of Washington -- and could stave off big c...
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Deadline Comes and Goes, and No Special Session Decision
Deadline Comes and Goes, and No Special Session Decision
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Aug. 3, 2010

More dithering in Congress over Medicaid money means more dithering in this Washington about whether to call a special session. If Congress doesn't come through with $480 million in Medicaid money, Democrats still haven't decided whether t...
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Gregoire Gives Lawmakers Deadline to Decide on Special Session
Gregoire Gives Lawmakers Deadline to Decide on Special Session
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | July 31, 2010

The governor wants help from the Legislature to deal with an impending budget crisis and demands an answer by noon Monday. And here's a switch! Republicans say they are happy to give a helping hand to the poor governor, but Gregoire's own...
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The Best Way for the State to Fix its Budget is – Pot Legalization?
The Best Way for the State to Fix its Budget is – Pot Legalization?
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | July 29, 2010

The wacky-tobacky budget-balancing plan is the public's favorite idea so far for fixing the state's big revenue problem. At least that's what it's saying on the governor's official website. Will the governor say yes to drugs?
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Nothing Brightens State's Economic Picture, Economist Says
Nothing Brightens State's Economic Picture, Economist Says
By:Washington State Wire | July 26, 2010

No news is bad news. Top economist Arun Raha tells a legislative committee that nothing has happened in the last month or so to improve the forecast he issued in June. And what it means is this. The state is down $207 million so far -- and if Congress ...
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State-Employee Health Premiums Going Up – Nearly 50 Percent in Some Cases
State-Employee Health Premiums Going Up – Nearly 50 Percent in Some Cases
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | July 21, 2010

For the second year in a row, state employees will face big increases in medical-insurance costs. But the state is holding the line on copayments and deductibles -- a big issue last year. And the big bugaboo about benefits -- the 88-12 sp...
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There’s More Than One Way to Reinvent State Government
There’s More Than One Way to Reinvent State Government
While her task force talks about reinventing government, an idea the governor vetoed this year might have actually done something about it.
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Judge Blocks a Sales Tax Exemption for British Columbia, and Other Provinces Go Down With It
Judge Blocks a Sales Tax Exemption for British Columbia, and Other Provinces Go Down With It
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | July 19, 2010

Tough luck, Labrador! And let us bid Quebecois shoppers adieu! Five provinces in eastern Canada are losing a Washington-state sales-tax break, at least for now. A judge has blocked a sales tax break that would have applied to every reside...
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Annual Top States For Business 2010 Countdown
Annual Top States For Business 2010 Countdown
By: CNBC
Washington State Moves Up To Number 15 But Still 34th In "Business Friendliness"
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Big Retailers Throw a Monkey Wrench Into Canadian Sales Tax Case
Big Retailers Throw a Monkey Wrench Into Canadian Sales Tax Case
By : Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | July 12, 2010

There's a new wrinkle in one of the state's strangest-ever legal battles. Big retail chains and the Washington Retail Association say they want a quick court decision about whether to give British Columbia residents a sales tax exemption...
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Two Big Pension Funds Heading For Broke, But Look on the Bright Side
Two Big Pension Funds Heading For Broke, But Look on the Bright Side
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | July 12, 2010

Other states are worse, says the state treasurer. And keep your eye on the half-full glass!
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Time to Start Thinking About the Next Special Session, Republicans Say
Time to Start Thinking About the Next Special Session, Republicans Say
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | July 8, 2010

A special session looms ahead because Congress is welshing on a $480 million promise -- wouldn't it be nice if this one was smoother than the last?
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Income Tax Seems Assured a Vote This Fall
Income Tax Seems Assured a Vote This Fall
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | July 1, 2010

Initiative 1098 presents more than enough signatures Thursday and will give the left a cause on a ballot crowded with business issues.
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Bellingham, Whatcom County Strike Blow Against Canadians
Bellingham, Whatcom County Strike Blow Against Canadians
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | July 1, 2010

The state's strangest legal battle finally begins -- locals say they love British Columbians, but not enough to give them a sales tax break.
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Next Move Up to Bellingham in State’s Goofiest Legal Battle Ever
Next Move Up to Bellingham in State’s Goofiest Legal Battle Ever
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | June 28, 2010

Someone has to sue by Wednesday to keep Canadians from getting a sales-tax break -- and the state has to bungle the case in order to win.
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Now it’s Official – Next Year’s Shortfall is $3 Billion
Now it’s Official – Next Year’s Shortfall is $3 Billion
Gov. Gregoire pledges an effort to reinvent government. But she says she won't cross labor, and the skeptics say they'll believe it when they see it.
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Canadian Sales-Tax Battle May Not be Over
Canadian Sales-Tax Battle May Not be Over
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | June 17, 2010

Now that's creative legal thinking! To keep B.C. residents paying sales tax in Washington, the Department of Revenue may set itself up for a lawsuit.
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Canadian Shoppers Get a Tax Break No One Intended
Canadian Shoppers Get a Tax Break No One Intended
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | June 16, 2010

Washington missed a fine legal point until it was too late -- so B.C. residents won't pay sales tax and local governments will lose millions.
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Think Washington is Unstable Now? Just Wait for the Income Tax
Think Washington is Unstable Now? Just Wait for the Income Tax
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | June 10, 2010

How come so many people think an income tax would be more stable? A new report says I-1098 would give the state stool a mighty wobbly leg.
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Best/Worst States for Business 2010
Best/Worst States for Business 2010
By: Chief Executive Magazine
Washington State Improves to 30th as More than 600 CEOs Rated States
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So Maybe it Wasn’t the Biggest Tax Increase in State History
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | April 27, 2010

It was one of the biggest claims of the session, but officials say the 1983 Legislature was the all-time chartbuster. Better luck next year!
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Gregoire Signs $794 Million Tax Package – But Says She Doesn’t Deserve All the Credit
Gregoire Signs $794 Million Tax Package – But Says She Doesn’t Deserve All the Credit
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | April 23, 2010

Can you find the legislator in this picture? 77 Democrats voted for this year's tax package, but only one showed up for the bill-signing. Doesn't anyone want honors?
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Soda-Pop Industry Shaken by Tax Hike
Soda-Pop Industry Shaken by Tax Hike
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | April 23, 2010

A tax break goes flat, bottlers pop their tops, and the governor signs the bill anyway. Will history repeat itself?
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Governor’s Signature Ends Legislature’s Three-Month Tussle
Governor’s Signature Ends Legislature’s Three-Month Tussle
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | April 23, 2010

Gregoire signs this year's $794 million tax hike -- the real finish to this year's Legislature. Here's a recap of 2010's biggest stories.
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In Their Own Words – The Final House Debate on the Budget
In Their Own Words – The Final House Debate on the Budget
By Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | April 14, 2010

Every speech from the House floor! House passes $30.5 billion budget -- the one that requires all the tax increases.
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In Their Own Words – The Final Senate Debate on the Budget
In Their Own Words – The Final Senate Debate on the Budget
By Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | April 14, 2010

Every speech from the Senate floor! Senate passes the state budget -- whether it is a responsible one is a matter of debate.
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In Their Own Words – The Final Senate Debate on Taxes
In Their Own Words – The Final Senate Debate on Taxes
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | April 14, 2010

Every speech from the Senate floor! Lawmakers pass the most controversial bill of the session, enacting a $794 million tax package -- what some like to call the biggest tax increase in state history.
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Already the Anti-Tax Campaigns are Starting
Already the Anti-Tax Campaigns are Starting
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | April 13, 2010

The 2010 Legislature barely has a chance to adjourn before initiative promoter Tim Eyman files eight initiatives challenging this year's tax hikes.
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Sales Tax Nixed in Legislature’s $800 Million Revenue Deal
Sales Tax Nixed in Legislature’s $800 Million Revenue Deal
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | April 7, 2010

Lisa Brown blinks, and Speaker Frank Chopp wins the argument of the session after the governor steps in. But at least it's a 'go-home' deal.
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Tax Impasse Drives Dems to Drink
Tax Impasse Drives Dems to Drink
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | April 5, 2010

Senate Democrats decide beer sounds good right about now -- offer to break deadlock by taxing regular-Joe brew, but would leave yuppie beer alone.
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What if Nobody Blinks? – Governor Starts Talking About the Unthinkable
What if Nobody Blinks? – Governor Starts Talking About the Unthinkable
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 25, 2010

The governor says she's getting sick and tired of waiting for the House and Senate to agree on taxes -- and she might have to order deep cuts.
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The Other Shoe Drops – Service Station Owners File Lawsuit Challenging Oil Tax
The Other Shoe Drops – Service Station Owners File Lawsuit Challenging Oil Tax
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 25, 2010

Legal challenge could overturn long-running environmental cleanup program -- lawmakers, greens started thinking too big, says plaintiff Tim Hamilton.
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Bankers, Software Developers Stand in the Way of the Exit as Lawmakers Ponder Tax Increases
Bankers, Software Developers Stand in the Way of the Exit as Lawmakers Ponder Tax Increases
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 24, 2010

The House tax plan paints bullseyes on their foreheads -- and their arguments explain why lawmakers are having so much trouble getting out of Dodge.
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In Their Own Words – Senate Dems Pass $718 Million Tax Plan
In Their Own Words – Senate Dems Pass $718 Million Tax Plan
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 22, 2010

Here's the entire floor debate as the Senate Dems advance their tax plan toward a final collision with the House. Sales-tax battle still to come.
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In Their Own Words – House Dems Pass a $788 Million Tax Increase
In Their Own Words – House Dems Pass a $788 Million Tax Increase
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 22, 2010

The complete first hour of the debate as House Dems gather ramming speed on Senate, rejecting sales tax and favoring taxes on selected businesses.
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MTCA Tax is On the Table in Special Session
MTCA Tax is On the Table in Special Session
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 12, 2010

A controversial hike in oil taxes will be a front-and-center battle when the Legislature comes back from its three-day weekend, top Dems say.
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Oil Fever Engulfs Legislature – Lobbying Over Green Tax-Hike Plan is Frenzied
Oil Fever Engulfs Legislature – Lobbying Over Green Tax-Hike Plan is Frenzied
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 10, 2010

Last-minute agitation over a green plan to raise taxes on oil is providing one of the biggest dramas of the 2010 Legislature's final hours. But the Senate vote-count is stuck at 24, just as it has been all session long.
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In Their Own Words – House Lawmakers Pass $683 Million Tax-Hike Plan
In Their Own Words – House Lawmakers Pass $683 Million Tax-Hike Plan
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 9, 2010

Best speeches from the House floor as the lower chamber passes a curiously truncated tax bill Tuesday morning. Don't worry, it'll get bigger.
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In Their Own Words – Why They’re Raising Your Taxes
In Their Own Words – Why They’re Raising Your Taxes
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 7, 2010

The best speeches from the Senate floor -- lawmakers Sunday explain the the state's budget crisis, and why you'll pay the billion-dollar price.
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Tax Fight Moves to the Senate Floor -- Battle Resumes Sunday
Tax Fight Moves to the Senate Floor -- Battle Resumes Sunday
by: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 6, 2010

Senate battles for hours over the tax bill, and a senator makes a Freudian slip.
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House Passes its Budget – Big Fight Over Taxes Still to Come
House Passes its Budget – Big Fight Over Taxes Still to Come
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 5, 2010

Lawmakers are counting on nearly a billion dollars in tax increases, and the tax package is yet to come. Here's a look at what they actually said on the House floor.

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Take My Name Off the MTCA Bill, Says House Transportation Chair
Take My Name Off the MTCA Bill, Says House Transportation Chair
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 4, 2010

Include her out, says Judy Clibborn of a green plan to raise oil taxes. The measure is one of the top priorities for the environmental lobby, but support appears to be faltering.
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Oil Tax Would be Overturned, Says Phil Talmadge
Oil Tax Would be Overturned, Says Phil Talmadge
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | March 3, 2010

Talk about Nixon going to China! Former Supreme Court justice and Democratic lion says the constitution blocks a green tax scheme.
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State Senate Passes Spending Plan -- Billion-Dollar Tax Hike Comes Next
State Senate Passes Spending Plan -- Billion-Dollar Tax Hike Comes Next
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 27, 2010

The state Senate Saturday evening took the first big budget vote of the year, appproving a spending plan that will require nearly $1 billion in new taxes. And it ducks the question -- how is the Legislature going to pay for it all?

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Gas Tax Slump Fuels a Billion-Dollar Problem, Transportation Interests Warn
Gas Tax Slump Fuels a Billion-Dollar Problem, Transportation Interests Warn
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 28, 2010

Transportation chair warns Senate about plummeting gas-tax revenues -- and shows why the asphalt lobby hates a green plan to raise taxes on oil.
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Sketchy Bill Illustrates House Conflict Over Taxes
Sketchy Bill Illustrates House Conflict Over Taxes
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 27, 2010

A sketchy bill introduced in the state House shows the trouble that chamber’s Democrats are having coming up with a tax plan. The "title-only" bill is vaguer than most, and could include just about anything.

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State Finds Way to Avoid $59 Million in Tax Refunds – It Just Won’t Pay
State Finds Way to Avoid $59 Million in Tax Refunds – It Just Won’t Pay
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 26, 2010

The state isn't telling companies about a tax case they might win, while the Legislature tries to close a gaping tax loophole after the fact.
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Governor Signs Bill Suspending I-960, Paving Way for Tax Increases
Governor Signs Bill Suspending I-960, Paving Way for Tax Increases
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 25, 2010

The governor's decision to sign came as a surprise to no one. Without the bill, Democrats couldn't raise taxes this year -- and they say they must. But why was initiative sponsor Tim Eyman hovering over her shoulder?
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‘Nexus’ Makes Business Nervous – Sales Tax Seems More Appealing
‘Nexus’ Makes Business Nervous – Sales Tax Seems More Appealing
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 25, 2010

It isn't that business wants a sales-tax hike. It's that the Legislature's plan to close 'loopholes' seems so much worse.
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Can Car Dealers Breathe Easy?
Can Car Dealers Breathe Easy?
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 25

Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown, D-Spokane, said Wednesday during a meeting with reporters that opposition runs strong within her caucus to a Senate proposal that would end a sales-tax credit for trade-ins. It's a major issue for car dealers ...
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Struggling Car Business Aghast at Senate Tax Plan
Struggling Car Business Aghast at Senate Tax Plan
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 24, 2010

Jaws drop on showroom floors: If state ends a trade-in tax credit, customers would pay sales tax twice. What's that going to do to sales?
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Oil Tax Will Bring Court Battle
Oil Tax Will Bring Court Battle
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 23, 2010

Tim Hamilton's service station operators say they'll challenge a proposed oil-tax hike in court -- a major roadblock for one budget-balancing scheme.
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Don’t Call Them Loopholes!
Don’t Call Them Loopholes!
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 14, 2010

House Dems' plan to end tax exemptions brings howls from business. Targets include shippers, border towns, aviation and tax planners.
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Dems’ Loophole Bill Would Sink Pacific Rim Trade, Business Interests Say
Dems’ Loophole Bill Would Sink Pacific Rim Trade, Business Interests Say
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 14, 2010

Port districts and trade interests come out swinging against a tax increase on interstate truck and train shipments -- would chase traffic to L.A., B.C., they say.
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Panel Sends I-960 Bill Back to the House Floor
Panel Sends I-960 Bill Back to the House Floor
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 15, 2010

While hundreds watch, House panel OK's bill eliminating tough rules for tax hikes, but in a surprise move restores public-notice requirements.
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Hold Your Jets!
Hold Your Jets!
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 15, 2010

Dems' tax plan would send airplane taxes into the stratosphere, aviation interests warn -- and pilots and charter operators might have to bail.
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Republicans Stage Another Floor Fight on I-960, But This One’s Just a Warm-Up
Republicans Stage Another Floor Fight on I-960, But This One’s Just a Warm-Up
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 13, 2010

No one can remember a debate like the one that took place Friday -- and it wasn't even the main event. Get set for a wild parliamentary ride!
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Senate Dems Make Double Sure I-960 is Dead
Senate Dems Make Double Sure I-960 is Dead
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 11, 2010

Senate Democrats hate Initiative 960 so much, they voted to kill it twice. House passage is a formality, and now it's full steam ahead for tax hikes.
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Anger Erupts as Dems Get Set for Tax Hikes
Anger Erupts as Dems Get Set for Tax Hikes
Overturning I-960 is the first step toward what appears to be an inevitable tax increase -- 'You're stepping on us,' activists complain.
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Democrats File Bill to Make Tax Increases Easier
Democrats File Bill to Make Tax Increases Easier
It's the first move in this year's budget debate -- a suspension of the strict rules imposed by Initiative 960. The game is afoot!
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Olympia's Next Big War -- A Steep Hike in Oil Taxes for Puget Sound Cleanup
Olympia's Next Big War -- A Steep Hike in Oil Taxes for Puget Sound Cleanup
Environmentalists sweeten proposal by offering exactly enough to balance the state budget -- plan would raise gas prices, cut money for roads.


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Candy-Tax Tactic Pits Business Against Public Health
Candy-Tax Tactic Pits Business Against Public Health
A clever Democratic strategy this year earmarks tax increases for specific purposes and brings lobbying muscle to bear. But is it a false choice?
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Can Salary Increases be Stopped?
Can Salary Increases be Stopped?
While the state faces a huge shortfall and a tax increase is on the table, state workers are in line for an $83 million pay raise. Yes, really.
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Tax Receipts Down Again, But This Time it's Good News
Tax Receipts Down Again, But This Time it's Good News
This time the problem is only $17 million -- and the state may finally be able to see bottom, says the state's top economist. Recovery comes next.
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Brown Abandons Income-Tax Plan
Brown Abandons Income-Tax Plan
Brown, the Senate majority leader, a possible contender for governor, and the state's number-one income-tax advocate, says next year isn't the time.
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A Budget That Aims for Screams
A Budget That Aims for Screams
Gov. Gregoire kicks off the budget debate with a spending plan she hopes nobody will take seriously.
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Biggest Clue Yet That a Tax Increase is Coming
Biggest Clue Yet That a Tax Increase is Coming
Lawmakers are returning to Olympia this week, but they won't hold a special session -- and their best chance to cut state spending will be gone.
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Close Tax Loopholes?
Close Tax Loopholes?
It sounds like the easy way to solve the state's $2.6 billion budget nightmare -- but the biggest tax breaks go to citizens themselves.
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Everyone's in the Same Boat
Everyone's in the Same Boat
Washington isn't the only state facing a budget crisis next year -- lawmakers everywhere are rushing to plug billion-dollar holes.
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State's Budget Hole Grows to $2.6 Billion
State's Budget Hole Grows to $2.6 Billion
The state's top economist delivers more bad news -- and now lawmakers know how big a problem they face next year. Tax increases, anyone?
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State Budget in a State of Crisis
State Budget in a State of Crisis
Exactly how big a hole lawmakers will have to fill next year is anyone’s guess at this point. But it looks like it's between $1 billion and $2 billion. And lawmakers will either have to raise taxes, or else they’ll have to cut -- again.
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Spotlight
When Senate Chair Spikes Education Bills, All Hell Breaks Loose
When Senate Chair Spikes Education Bills, All Hell Breaks Loose
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 4, 2012

A decision by a Democratic chairwoman to kill a pair of high-profile education bills has triggered an all-but-unheard-of standoff in a Senate committee and a backroom blowup among the Senate Democrats. And it demonstrates this year, as last, that the moderate Roadkill Dems hold all the cards.

Governor’s Oil-Barrel Tax – Or is it a Fee? – Is Looking Like a Goner
Governor’s Oil-Barrel Tax – Or is it a Fee? – Is Looking Like a Goner
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 3, 2012

Gov. Christine Gregoire’s proposal for a $1.50 tax on oil-by-the-barrel to pay for road construction and environmental projects is looking like it has a dead battery, as three key senators say the governor’s plan just isn’t clicking. Meanwhile, a pair of influential House lawmakers have introduced a constitutional amendment that would block the green lobby's efforts to tax "Big Oil" once and for all.

House Republicans Tout ‘Fund Education First’ Budget – Skeptical Dems Give it an ‘Incomplete’
House Republicans Tout ‘Fund Education First’ Budget – Skeptical Dems Give it an ‘Incomplete’
By: Erik Smith | Washington State Wire | Feb. 3, 2012

House Republicans show what they mean when they say "Fund Education First," unveilling a partial budget plan that deals only with K-12 education. Everything else can come later. Democrats say it's no way to write a budget.

Who Wants Newt Out?
By: Jim Boldt | Washington State Wire | 01.31.12

Newt is not going to quit. He is going to continue to try and hold his cool, not go off on someone or about some issue. He is as smart as any one of them, continues to talk of solid experienced realignment of our government...
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Charter Schools, Rocket Science and Rocketships
By: Jim Boldt | Washington State Wire | 01.26.12

Do we have to continue to talk about what's going on in the real world, the demands being placed on future generations of students, the drag on success created by 20th century education unions, the desire of most educators to do the right thing, and the current lack of courage by Washington's elected to step up?
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Introductions Today! Is It The Snow?
By: Jim Boldt | Washington State Wire | 1.19.12

SB 6369 simple states that where there are “gaps” in the evidence don't worry about it, just go ahead with the plan. In a world of DOE staff looking for every opportunity to prove their worth to certain constituencies this is a free pass.
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Snow, Frozen Water, Mantels, and Other Words
By: Jim Boldt | Washington State Wire | 1.18.12

Next, do we need a bill to modernize a statute? Probably, because...you guessed it, modern words for modern technology. Excuse the word functionality. The drafters and advocates must think that the state EPA actually works, you know, functions.
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Latest News
Washington State Legislative Education Chairs Stalling Reforms to Improve Education
Washington State Legislative Education Chairs Stalling Reforms to Improve Education
Editorial: Use Gavels to Doom Promising Legislation on Charter Schools and Teacher Evaluations
By: Seattle Times
Education Bills Stalled by Debate on Charter Schools
Education Bills Stalled by Debate on Charter Schools
Gregoire Drops By Brown's Office for Frank and Open Exchange of Views
By: Jerry Cornfield/ The (Everett) Herald
Dispute Stalls Education Bills in Legislature
Dispute Stalls Education Bills in Legislature
After Chairwoman McAuliffe Blocks Vote, Blames Committee Members For Balking on Everything Else
By: Associated Press
Looks Like Liquor Prices to Go Up, Over Fees From Initiative 1183
Looks Like Liquor Prices to Go Up, Over Fees From Initiative 1183
Measure Will Close Liquor Stores June 1
By: Seattle Times
Brendan Williams Looking for a New Job
Brendan Williams Looking for a New Job
Former Lawmaker Running for Thurston County Superior Court Vacancy
By: The Olympian
Senate's Vote for Gay Marriage is a Principled Stand
Senate's Vote for Gay Marriage is a Principled Stand
Editorial: What a Proud Moment!
By: Seattle Times
Senate Panel Deadlocks on Plan to Create Public Records Restrictions
Senate Panel Deadlocks on Plan to Create Public Records Restrictions
Would Allow Public Agencies to Challenge Burdensome Requests -- Pam Roach May Cast Deciding Vote
By: Associated Press
National Forces Likely to Lead on Gay Marriage Referendum Effort
National Forces Likely to Lead on Gay Marriage Referendum Effort
National Organization for Marriage Gets Set to Run Repeal Referendum
By: Seattle Times
Washington Residents Slow to Embrace SuperPACs -- So Far
Washington Residents Slow to Embrace SuperPACs -- So Far
Measly $200K Given From Washington State -- PACs Are Reshaping Presidential Politics
By: Jim Brunner/ Seattle Times
Fund Education First, House Republicans Say
Fund Education First, House Republicans Say
Dems Call Idea Silly
By: Jim Camden/ Spokesman-Review
Read more Latest News

It's Time to Protect Our Rights -- and Our Economy -- By Ending Health Care Mandates
It's Time to Protect Our Rights -- and Our Economy -- By Ending Health Care Mandates
Steve Forbes and Rob McKenna write, "What does it mean for you? You will pay more – not less, as promised – for your health care coverage."
By: FOX News
Consolidate Health-Care System? Bill Splits School-Worker Unions
A bill working its way through the Legislature has triggered something of a bizarro world in Olympia, with liberals lambasting a government takeover of health care and two of the state's most powerful unions fighting each other.
By: Seattle Times
Limited Resources are Available for Mental Health Patients
Limited Resources are Available for Mental Health Patients
Washington State is ranked last in the nation for having the fewest psychiatric beds for patients.
By: KNDO
Should Sugar Be Regulated Like Alcohol and Tobacco?
Should Sugar Be Regulated Like Alcohol and Tobacco?
Scientists at the University of California, San Francisco argue that sugar is toxic and needs to be taxed and controlled.
By: Time
In our view: Health Care Turmoil
About 47,000 Medicaid patients in Clark County are about to be thrust into turmoil -- as will the health care plan that has served them for 18 years -- if the state Health Care Authority has its way.
By: Columbian Editorial
Federal Judge Considers if Pharmacies Must Sell Plan B
A federal judge is expected to rule this month whether Washington state can require pharmacies to sell the Plan B contraceptive, even if the druggists object on religious grounds.
By: Seattle Times
Opportunity in Austerity — A Common Agenda for Medicine and Public Health
Opportunity in Austerity — A Common Agenda for Medicine and Public Health
Whereas inadequate medical care accounts for 10% of premature deaths in the United States, behavioral patterns, social circumstances, and environmental exposures have a far greater effect, accounting for roughly 60% of deaths.
By: New England Journal of Medicine
Study: Health Law’s Tax On Insurers Will Take Bite Out Of Medicaid
Study: Health Law’s Tax On Insurers Will Take Bite Out Of Medicaid
A report released today by the actuarial firm Milliman Inc. said the new tax in 2014 will cost the Medicaid program between $36.5 billion and $41.9 billion over 10 years. At least $13 billion will be borne by states.
By: Kaiser Health News
States Under Pressure As Health Law Deadlines Approach
States Under Pressure As Health Law Deadlines Approach
"Open enrollment has to be ready to go by Oct. 1, 2013, so in January of 2013 we have to submit our products and rates for [state] approval," said Alissa Fox, senior vice president of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
By: Kaiser Health News
Read more YourHealthCareToday