State Democratic leaders ask for delay of long-term care tax

Democratic leaders in the state Senate are speaking out against Washington’s long-term care tax. In a letter addressed to Gov. Jay Inslee, seven senators asked for a one-year delay of the Washington Cares Act.

The bill creates a social insurance program to help people pay for care for themselves in old age or sickness. Recipients can collect up to $36,500 of a lifetime benefit.

Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig is among the signees. “We must get this issue right and I’ve been encouraged by the response we’ve received. A delay in the implementation of the program will allow the legislature to hear more from the public and make changes,” said Billig.

On Wednesday, Inslee announced he was open to tweaking the bill.

“I am sensitive and empathetic to the need for changes in this bill,” Inslee said.

The governor also said that he alone does not have the power to pause the tax and that the legislature must step in.

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