Washington Supreme Court blocks referendum challenge to new millionaires tax
Updated
Updated · KOMO News · May 4
Washington Supreme Court blocks referendum challenge to new millionaires tax
3 articles · Updated · KOMO News · May 4
In a unanimous Olympia order, justices rejected Brian Heywood and Let's Go Washington's bid over a 9.9% tax on income above $1m, due from 2029.
The court said ESSB 6346 is exempt from referendum because revenue measures supporting state government and public institutions are constitutionally protected from voter challenge.
The law, passed in 2026, is meant to fund education, healthcare, human services and higher education, while separate legal challenges to the tax's constitutionality could still follow.
Could a century-old legal precedent derail Washington's new tax on millionaires?
Will Washington's tax on millionaires fix its budget or cause an exodus of wealth?
Washington is taxing the rich to fund tax cuts. Who truly benefits from this major reform?
Washington Supreme Court Blocks $3 Billion "Millionaires Tax" Referendum, Setting Stage for 2027 Constitutional Battle
Overview
In May 2026, the Washington State Supreme Court blocked a public referendum on the 'millionaires tax,' allowing the tax to move forward without voter approval. Opponents responded by filing a constitutional challenge in April 2026, arguing the tax violates the state constitution's property tax rules, while supporters praised the ruling and highlighted strong public support. The case is expected to reach the Supreme Court again by late 2027, with November 2026 elections potentially reshaping the court's makeup and influencing the outcome. If upheld, the tax will generate $3 billion annually to fund education and social programs, but if overturned, it would create a major budget shortfall and jeopardize expanded tax credits for working families.