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Bill

SB 5151

Limiting annual state spending growth to median worker wage growth, with excess revenues dedicated to property tax relief.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by John Braun and 5 co-sponsors

SB 5151 caps Washington state spending growth to median wage growth rates, redirecting excess revenues to property tax relief, creating a structural budget constraint.

First reading, referred to Ways & Means.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 5151

Legislative bill overview

SB 5151 would cap annual growth in Washington state spending to match the growth rate of median worker wages, with any revenue exceeding this cap directed toward property tax relief. The bill creates a structural limit on state budget expansion independent of actual revenue collection or policy needs.

Why is this important

This addresses concerns about government spending outpacing wage growth for working families, but it fundamentally constrains the state's fiscal flexibility during emergencies, recessions, or when demand for services (education, healthcare, infrastructure) exceeds wage growth rates. Washington currently has no constitutional spending cap, making this a significant structural change to budgeting authority.

Potential points of contention

  • Procyclical budget pressure: During economic downturns when median wages decline or grow slowly, the spending cap would force budget cuts precisely when demand for unemployment benefits, healthcare, and social services typically increases
  • Inflexibility for crises: Natural disasters, pandemics, or public health emergencies couldn't trigger proportional spending responses without violating the cap or requiring legislative supermajority overrides
  • Definition and measurement disputes: "Median worker wage growth" requires precise definition (state vs. national, which industries, adjustment methods), creating ongoing technical and political disputes
  • Revenue volatility mismatch: Capital gains taxes and business activity create volatile revenue streams that don't correlate with wage growth, potentially forcing either large surpluses or chronic underfunding
  • Distributional questions: Property tax relief benefits property owners differently by income level and geography; opponents question whether this aligns with progressive taxation principles

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

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