Washington Senate Passes Millionaires Tax Proposal

Bill heads to state House after narrow Senate vote, faces GOP opposition over income tax concerns.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Washington State Senate has passed a controversial "Millionaires Tax" proposal that would impose a 9.9% tax on income above $1 million, affecting less than 1% of state households. Supporters say the estimated $3.7 billion in annual revenue would fund schools, healthcare, childcare and other services, while also cutting taxes for small businesses and low-income families. Republicans argue the bill creates an unconstitutional income tax and object to language blocking a public referendum.

Why it matters

The Millionaires Tax is a major policy proposal that could reshape Washington's tax landscape and generate significant new funding for public priorities, but faces legal and political challenges from GOP lawmakers who view it as an unconstitutional income tax.

The details

Senate Bill 6346 would place a 9.9% tax on income above $1 million in Washington state. Supporters say it would raise an estimated $3.7 billion per year, while also cutting taxes for small businesses and low-income families. Republicans argue the bill is an unconstitutional income tax and object to language that would block a public referendum on the measure.

  • The Washington State Senate passed the Millionaires Tax proposal on February 16, 2026.
  • The bill now heads to the state House for consideration.

The players

Jamie Pedersen

Washington Senate Majority Leader and a supporter of the Millionaires Tax proposal.

Washington State Senate

The state legislative chamber that passed the Millionaires Tax proposal in a 27-22 vote.

Washington State House

The state legislative chamber that will now consider the Millionaires Tax proposal after its passage in the Senate.

Washington State Republicans

GOP lawmakers who oppose the Millionaires Tax proposal, arguing it creates an unconstitutional income tax and object to language blocking a public referendum.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.