WA Lawmakers Debate Overnight Over 'Millionaires Tax'

House Republicans and Democrats continue marathon session on controversial income tax proposal.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Washington state lawmakers are engaged in a marathon overnight session to debate a controversial "millionaires tax" that would impose a nearly 10% levy on annual earnings over $1 million. While proponents argue the measure balances the tax code to support the working class, opponents have introduced numerous amendments to stall the bill, citing fears that the tax will eventually expand to lower income brackets.

Why it matters

The proposed "millionaires tax" has become a highly contentious issue in Washington state, with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle passionately debating its merits and potential consequences. The outcome of this debate could have significant implications for the state's tax structure and the financial burden on its wealthiest residents.

The details

House Republicans and Democrats have been engaged in a marathon overnight session at the state Capitol, debating the details and potential impact of the proposed "millionaires tax." The measure would impose a nearly 10% tax on individuals and households earning more than $1 million annually. Proponents argue the tax is a necessary step toward balancing the state's tax code and making it more affordable for the working class, while opponents have introduced numerous amendments in an attempt to stall the bill's progress, citing concerns that the tax could eventually expand to lower income brackets.

  • The session began at 5:40 p.m. on Monday and continued through Tuesday morning.
  • Gov. Bob Ferguson has previously expressed reservations about the proposed "millionaires tax," but has now indicated he will sign the current version of the legislation if it passes both the House and Senate.

The players

Rep. Travis Coulter

A Republican lawmaker who has introduced amendments to stall the progress of the "millionaires tax" bill, citing concerns that the tax could eventually expand to lower income brackets.

Rep. April Berg

A Democratic lawmaker who has argued in favor of the "millionaires tax," noting that a household making $1.2 million per year is earning $100,000 per month, which exceeds the annual salary of many local police officers and teachers.

Gov. Bob Ferguson

The governor of Washington state, who has previously expressed reservations about the proposed "millionaires tax" but has now indicated he will sign the current version of the legislation if it passes both the House and Senate.

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What they’re saying

“The biggest thing I hear... is that this income tax will never remain on millionaires.”

— Rep. Travis Coulter (fox13seattle.com)

“A household that makes $1.2 million a year... is making $100,000 per month. There is a responsibility that comes with money and with income.”

— Rep. April Berg (fox13seattle.com)

“I'm glad to say the latest floor amendment to the bill achieves these critical goals and will help make our state more affordable. I will sign this version of the bill.”

— Gov. Bob Ferguson (fox13seattle.com)

What’s next

The House needs to pass the bill before they can send it back to the Senate, which then would need to approve it. If approved by both chambers, it moves to Gov. Ferguson's desk for his signature.

The takeaway

The debate over the proposed "millionaires tax" in Washington state highlights the ongoing tension between efforts to balance the tax code and address income inequality, and concerns about the potential for such measures to expand beyond their original scope. The outcome of this debate could have significant implications for the state's fiscal policies and the financial burden on its wealthiest residents.