Washington state voters are preparing to decide on several significant initiatives affecting tax policy, education funding, and school regulations in the upcoming election. These measures will shape the state’s financial landscape and public school systems for years to come.
The Secretary of State has published official arguments for and against each measure, alongside fiscal impact statements prepared by the Office of Financial Management. Voters face critical choices across three main statewide initiatives.
Initiative 645: Repealing Washington’s Income Tax
Initiative 645 proposes repealing the state’s 9.9% income tax on annual individual income exceeding $1 million. It also prohibits state and local governments from imposing taxes measured by individual income. Tax relief measures are scheduled to take effect January 1, 2029, according to the Washington Policy Center.
Supporters argue that the repeal will protect taxpayers, entrepreneurs, and small-business owners from additional taxation. Conversely, opponents contend that the repeal would eliminate future revenue supporting education, healthcare, and other vital public services.
The state’s fiscal impact statement estimates that the repeal would reduce revenue by $11.4 billion across state fiscal years 2027 through 2031. Although the first tax payments are not expected until 2029, the estimate reflects future revenue that would not be collected if the initiative passes.
Initiative IL26-001: Parental Rights in Public Schools
Initiative IL26-001 would restore Washington’s original 2024 parental rights law by reversing amendments adopted in 2025. If passed, parents will regain specified rights to review instructional materials, access student records, and receive certain medical notifications.
Supporters emphasize that these protections improve transparency and reinforce parental involvement in education. On the other side, opponents argue that the changes could compromise student privacy and weaken protections for children facing unsafe home environments.
Initiative IL26-638: Participation in Girls’ School Sports
Initiative IL26-638 would restrict eligibility for girls’ school athletics using the measure’s definition of biological sex. Students participating in girls-only sports would need healthcare providers to verify their biological sex.
Proponents argue the proposal protects competitive fairness and athletic opportunities for female students. Critics contend it would exclude transgender girls and create unnecessary medical and privacy burdens for families and schools.
As the November election approaches, these initiatives highlight deep debates among Washington residents regarding state spending, fiscal sustainability, and public school policies.
