The Old Shell Game - Higher Prices?


Source:  ShiftWA.org

The four caucus leaders of the Washington State Legislature sent Governor Jay Inslee a letter saying his immunization plan was “unacceptable.”  The Republican and Democrat leaders were mostly concerned that the plan would keep many school districts closed to in-person instruction for the remainder of the school year.  Inslee’s actions are leading many to believe the governor is not as supportive as he publicly claims he is regarding reopening schools. (Shift Quick Take)

While Washington State gyms and fitness centers are finally allowed to reopen again, many operators say the current guidelines are too restrictive and make it extremely difficult to stay in business.  Under Governor Inslee’s latest random orders, gyms are allowed to open, but only one person per room (or per 500 square feet) and by appointment only.  Gym owners have suffered through two closures of their facilities in the past 10 months, with the latest one lasting eight weeks over the lucrative holiday season.  Gyms say they need to be able to operate at either 25% or 50% capacity in order to break even.  They also state that their customers around the country have adapted to stringent health guidelines while working out.  A spokesperson for 24 Hour Fitness states, “We’ve had over 15 million check-ins across the country since June, and have yet to have a COVID breakout or case that is contact-traced back to our club.” Wonder if that qualifies as “science” to Jay Inslee? (Seattle Times)

Senator Phil Fortunato (R – Auburn) has introduced a bill placing a term limit on the Washington Governor.  SJR 8202 would place a two-term limit on the office.  The bill does not place limits on any other elected Executive Branch or Legislative offices. (SJR 8202)

Jason Mercier of the Washington Policy Center notes an odd aspect of Governor Inslee’s state income tax  proposal (starting with capital gains).  While the measure includes an emergency clause preventing it to be subject to a citizen referendum (because the governor says it is necessary for COVID-19 relief), the first collection of the tax will not take place until April 17th … of 2023. Inslee must be very confident in his management of the pandemic’s impacts, as he is counting on the need for pandemic relief requiring emergency legislation — two years from now. (Fiscal Note on SB 5096) 

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