Seattle's Mass Job Loss Sparks Concerns Over Taxes + New Poll Shows Strong Support For Initiatives

Seattle business leaders are warning that rising taxes are driving jobs out of the city. Meanwhile, a Washington student wrestler is seeking emergency U.S. Supreme Court intervention, and new polling shows reported majority support for two controversial Washington ballot initiatives. Plus, Gov. Bob Ferguson faces a decision on a federal education tax credit program that supporters estimate could bring $700 million or more annually to Washington students. SEATTLE BUSINESS TAXES & JOB LOSSES The Downtown Seattle Association and Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce warn that Seattle's growing business tax burden is hurting the city's competitiveness. Business leaders point to thousands of jobs lost and employers relocating positions to neighboring cities such as Bellevue. Downtown Seattle Association CEO John Scholes urges city officials to rethink their tax structure. WASHINGTON SUPREME COURT CASE & NEW ELECTION POLLING Washington student wrestler Callie Keeler is seeking emergency relief from the U.S. Supreme Court in a case involving transgender athlete participation in girls wrestling. Her attorneys at Alliance Defending Freedom argue that legal protections are needed before the upcoming wrestling season. New polling released by Let's Go Washington also suggests support for two ballot measures ahead of the November 3 election. According to the group's reported results, 56% support Initiative 638, which addresses participation in girls sports, while 51% support Initiative 0001, which seeks to restore parental rights protections. Both figures reflect results adjusted for party share, as presented by the group. The results add another dimension to Washington's ongoing debate over girls sports, parental rights and education policy. FERGUSON WEIGHS FEDERAL EDUCATION TAX CREDIT Gov. Bob Ferguson's office says it is reviewing new federal Treasury rules before deciding whether Washington will participate in the Education Freedom Tax Credit program. Former Obama Education Secretary Arne Duncan is urging Washington to opt in, arguing the program could provide significant additional resources for tutoring, after-school programs and academic support. Supporters estimate the program could generate more than $700 million annually for Washington students, although that funding is not guaranteed. Follow The Center Square for Washington politics, business news, education, elections and government accountability reporting. Want the next important update by text? Get the Washington state government and policy developments worth your attention sent straight to your phone. Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016 or sign up here: https://joinsubtext.com/c/thecentersquarewa Msg & data rates may apply.