Sen. Schoesler calls for tax relief

RITZVILLE – Following Friday's national inflation news that shows prices are 6.8% higher than a year ago, Sen. Mark Schoesler called on the state elected officials to provide tax relief for Washingtonians.

Schoesler, R-Ritzville, noted the inflation increase reported is the highest since 1982.

He wants Gov. Jay Inslee and Democrats in the state House and Senate to help offset the inflation.

"Consumers throughout the U.S. have had to pay higher prices on many items over the past year," Schoesler said. "Food prices have risen 6.1%, energy prices have skyrocketed 33%, new vehicles are 11.1% higher, medical care is 2.1% higher and shelter is up nearly 4%."

Schoesler represents the 9th Legislative District, which includes Adams, Asotin, Franklin, Garfield, Whitman and southern Spokane counties.

"While salaries have risen for many, they haven't come close to keeping up with rising inflation, and it's making it harder for families and individuals to make ends meet," he said. "At a time when the state has a huge surplus, now is the time for the governor and the Legislature to provide tax relief to hard-working people who are struggling because of inflation."

Gov. Inslee is expected to unveil his state supplemental operating budget proposal this week, ahead of the 2022 legislation session that opens Jan. 10 and runs for 60 days.

Schoesler serves on the Senate Ways and Means Committee, which addresses budget and tax issues.

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Roger Harnack, Publisher

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