‘This vote means there will be adverse impacts on our state transportation system’
— from Governor Jay Inslee —
Gov. Jay Inslee released a statement on the results of Initiative 976 from yesterday’s general election.
“It is clear that the majority of voters objected to current car tab levels. It is also clear that this vote means there will be adverse impacts on our state transportation system.
“I believe Washingtonians recognize the need to support a safe and reliable transportation system which includes buses, light rail, and ferries and is essential to support our robust economy, ease congestion and fight climate change.
“Accordingly, in response to the will of the people, I am taking immediate action. I have directed the Washington State Department of Transportation to postpone projects not yet underway. I have also asked other state agencies that receive transportation funding, including the Washington State Patrol and Department of Licensing, to defer non-essential spending as we review impacts.
“I will work with legislators, agency leadership and stakeholders on how best to respond to the impacts of this initiative.
“I remain committed to finding solutions to meet Washington’s growing and urgent transportation needs.”
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Maybe, instead of passing I-976 Washington voters would rather find funding to keep infrastructure going by initiating a state income tax. The money has to come from somewhere.
Well, now we’ll learn if the sky is falling or not. My sense from speaking to people about this issue is that most support highway maintenance and related costs and don’t care that much about the tab $$, but are skeptical that the huge sums being collected are being well-spent. We have had a series of shocking bureaucratic blunders in the past several years. The Governor likely needs to do something to assure voters that the proposed spending is well-thought-out and closely monitored.
I am concerned that we, collectively, do not understand the consequences of our actions. If ferry service is curtailed as a result of the vote, we will surely hear more on this issue.
I am disappointed that we have not heard more from our Ferry Committee.
However, I AM concerned that our legislators, at all levels, are not spending our money wisely. We