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Bill

HB 2082

Increasing funding to the education legacy trust account by creating a more progressive rate structure for the capital gains tax and estate tax.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Berry and 12 co-sponsors

HB 2082 restructures capital gains and estate taxes with progressive rates to increase education legacy trust account funding in Washington state.

First reading, referred to Finance.
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Bill Summary · HB 2082

Legislative bill overview

HB 2082 would increase funding to Washington's education legacy trust account by implementing a more progressive rate structure for both the capital gains tax and estate tax. The bill restructures these taxes to generate additional revenue specifically dedicated to education funding. This represents an effort to increase education resources through tax policy modifications targeting higher-value transactions and estates.

Why is this important

Education funding directly affects school resources, teacher salaries, and student services across Washington. By dedicating new revenue to the legacy trust account—which supports education—the bill attempts to address ongoing education funding challenges without creating new taxes. The outcome will significantly impact both education budgets and taxpayers with substantial capital gains or estates.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact concerns: Critics may argue that progressive capital gains tax increases could discourage investment or cause capital flight to other states with lower tax burdens
  • Estate tax burden: More progressive estate tax rates could affect family-owned businesses and farms, potentially forcing asset sales to cover tax obligations
  • Revenue uncertainty: Projections for revenue generated from progressive rate structures depend on economic conditions and investment patterns, which are difficult to predict accurately
  • Fairness debate: Disagreement over whether targeted taxation on specific income types is equitable versus whether broad-based funding is preferable
  • Implementation complexity: Progressive rate structures require careful design to avoid unintended consequences or tax avoidance strategies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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