OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Washington’s largest teacher’s union wants state officials to look for revenue options other than a temporary sales tax.
Mary Lindquist, the president of the Washington Education Association, said Thursday a sales tax increase would place the burden on middle class families. Lindquist says teachers would consider supporting the tax if it is the only option available, but she wants lawmakers to examine tax exemptions for businesses and other ways to raise revenue.
Gov. Chris Gregoire has proposed a half-cent temporary increase in the state sales to raise about $500 million per year and help buy back cuts, particularly in education. She wants voters to approve it early next year. Lindquist praised Gregoire to initiating a discussion on possible taxes.
