To the Editor:
When wealthy individuals are willing to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars in a ballot initiative, it’s crucial to ask: “Why?” Perhaps greed or power?
Take I-2109, for example. If this passes, taxes on capital gains over $250,000 would be eliminated. While everyone appreciates lower taxes, this mostly benefits the wealthy, while funding for K-12 education, school construction, and childcare would be jeopardized. I-2109 is a massive welfare program for the rich.
Then there’s I-2066, which claims to protect the choice to use natural gas. However, this so-called protection already exists in state law. What it really does is undermine programs designed to promote clean, renewable, and cost-effective energy, prioritizing fossil fuel interests at the expense of our environment.
I-2117 threatens Washington’s Climate Commitment Act. It’s no surprise that over 500 organizations —including BP, Sierra Club, PSE, Tribal leaders, and REI — are fighting against it. Whoa, when was the last time that BP and the Sierra club agreed on anything? If I-2117 passes, we can expect increased air pollution, job losses, traffic congestion, deteriorating ferry services, and negative farming impacts.
Lastly, I-2124 makes Washington’s long-term care insurance program voluntary. While the premium is tiny (0.58%), the benefits are substantial. If this passes, the financial burden of those who become disabled without coverage would fall on families and taxpayers, leading to greater hardship. More than 100 organizations oppose this measure . . . for excellent reason.
If it’s a state ballot initiative . . . just say no!
Mark Rohde
Snohomish
