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Bill

Bill

HJR 4202

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution to provide for an automatic referendum on tax acts.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Cheney and 7 co-sponsors

Washington constitutional amendment proposal requiring automatic statewide referendums on all tax legislation before implementation, shifting final tax authority from legislature to voters.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · HJR 4202

Legislative bill overview

HJR 4202 proposes a constitutional amendment requiring automatic referendums on all tax acts passed by the Washington state legislature. Rather than allowing taxes to take effect upon passage, this measure would mandate voter approval through direct democracy before any new or increased tax can be implemented.

Why is this important

This reflects a broader tension between representative and direct democracy in governance. It would fundamentally shift tax policy authority from elected legislators to voters statewide, potentially slowing fiscal responses to emergencies and making budgeting more unpredictable. Washington already has relatively restrictive tax structures and strong supermajority requirements for certain taxes.

Potential points of contention

  • Emergency response delays: Automatic referendums could prevent rapid tax adjustments needed for economic crises, public health emergencies, or infrastructure disasters
  • Voter fatigue and complexity: Frequent ballot measures on technical tax code changes might overwhelm voters and reduce meaningful engagement on more significant proposals
  • Fiscal uncertainty: Businesses and government agencies require budget predictability; mandatory referendums could create extended periods of uncertainty after legislatures act
  • Supermajority implications: Combined with existing Washington supermajority requirements (some taxes need 2/3 legislative approval), this adds another barrier, potentially favoring low-tax outcomes regardless of public service needs

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

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