Rep. Vincent Buys supports Initiative 1053 as voice of the voters
Rep. Vincent Buys, R-Lynden, believes Initiative 1053 (I-1053) works as intended and clearly represents the will of the people. Buys is disappointed by the recent ruling from the King County Superior Court. The court found the initiative, which requires a two-thirds vote of the Legislature to raise taxes, unconstitutional. Such a proposal has been passed by the citizens of Washington five times since 1993.
“Overturning a ballot measure that passed multiple times undermines the voice of the people,” Buys said. “If there is a true need to increase taxes, or repeal a tax incentive, the Legislature can still enact it. This court case was a political move by those who wanted an easier way to raise taxes on hardworking citizens. I applaud Attorney General Rob McKenna for appealing the decision to the Washington State Supreme Court.”
Buys also supports the announcement by 42nd District Senator. Doug Ericksen to introduce a constitutional amendment that will ensure the two-thirds vote remains a standard in Washington state. Buys co-sponsored a similar constitutional amendment last year.
