Washington State Superintendent Backs 'Millionaires' Tax' to 'Revolutionize' Education

Chris Reykdal says proposed tax on high-income earners could provide major funding boost for public schools and higher education.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 8:07pm

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Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal has voiced strong support for a proposed 'millionaires' tax' that Democratic lawmakers say could raise $3.7 billion in new revenue. Reykdal believes the tax, which would apply to income over $1 million, could 'revolutionize' education in the state by fully funding K-12 schools, providing free school meals and two years of free college tuition for all Washingtonians.

Why it matters

Washington is one of a handful of states without a personal income tax, leading some to argue the state's tax code is 'upside-down' and disproportionately burdens lower and middle-income residents. The proposed 'millionaires' tax' is seen by proponents as a way to make the tax system more progressive and generate significant new funding for education and other priorities.

The details

The proposed tax would apply a 9.9% rate on income over $1 million, which state Democrats estimate would raise $3.7 billion. Reykdal wants to use this revenue to fully fund K-12 education, provide free school meals, and offer two years of free in-state college tuition. He also supports eliminating fees for dual-credit programs like Advanced Placement. Reykdal believes these investments could help boost college completion rates, as over 70% of Washington high school students earn college credits but only 55% go on to attend a traditional four-year college.

  • The proposed 'millionaires' tax' legislation is currently being considered by the Washington state legislature in 2026.

The players

Chris Reykdal

The Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction, who has voiced strong support for the proposed 'millionaires' tax' as a way to dramatically increase education funding.

Washington State Democrats

The political party that has proposed the 'millionaires' tax' legislation, which they estimate could raise $3.7 billion in new revenue.

Washington State Republicans

The opposing political party that is pushing back against the 'millionaires' tax' proposal in its current form.

Governor Bob Ferguson

The Republican governor of Washington who is also opposing the 'millionaires' tax' proposal.

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What they’re saying

“If it was almost solely focused on families trying to raise kids and giving young people the greatest opportunity, we would revolutionize education in the state, particularly higher ed access.”

— Chris Reykdal, Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction

“Washingtonians have rejected income taxes again in again because they know better.”

— Rep. Travis Couture, Republican, District of Allyn

What’s next

The proposed 'millionaires' tax' legislation still needs to clear the state legislature and potentially face a voter referendum before being enacted.

The takeaway

The debate over the 'millionaires' tax' highlights the ongoing tensions in Washington state over how to fund public education and make the tax system more progressive. While the proposal has the strong backing of the state's top education official, it faces significant opposition from Republicans who argue Washingtonians have repeatedly rejected income tax increases.