Evergreen Reporter

House Republicans have released their 2021-23 operating budget framework which Rep. Chris Corry (R-Yakima) said provides support for families.

“This proposal offers a hand to families in need, including child care options and sales tax exemptions,” Corry said.

Corry was also proud to say that there are no tax hikes included in the framework.

“It also does not raise taxes on anyone or anything. We also invest more in public health without raising taxes on health care plans like the governor has proposed,” he said.

The proposal, according to houserepublicans.wa.gov, includes for the first time in its 12-year history a fund for the Working Families Tax Credit ($600 million), sales tax exemption for basic necessities, like prepared food and diapers ($293 million), $300 stipends to low-income families to defray the cost of remote learning ($160 million), and grants and higher rates for childcare providers plus copay assistance for families ($114 million).

It would also be adding funds for foundational public health with no tax on health insurance ($300 million), would fund DNR’s forest health management plan, reducing wildfires and pollution ($260 million), and would maximize production at state and tribal hatcheries to support fish populations ($12 million).