SEATTLE — A former Washington State Supreme Court justice has joined a growing legal challenge to the state’s recently enacted income tax, lending significant weight to the opposition effort. The development comes as critics argue the tax violates Washington’s constitution, which requires uniformity in taxation.
The ex-justice, whose name has yet to be confirmed by multiple sources, is reportedly advising a coalition of businesses and advocacy groups. “This is a big deal,” said one legal analyst familiar with the case. “Having a former Supreme Court justice on board signals serious legal firepower.”
Washington has long prided itself on being one of the few states without a personal income tax. Proponents of the tax argue it is necessary to address income inequality and fund critical public services. Opponents, however, claim it disproportionately impacts small businesses and middle-class families.
Legal experts note that the state’s constitution has been a historical barrier to income tax proposals. “There’s a reason previous attempts have failed,” said a political science professor at the University of Washington. “The constitutional hurdles are steep.”
The case could have far-reaching implications, potentially shaping tax policy in Washington for decades. If successful, the challenge could derail the state’s plans to implement the tax next year.