Income Tax Sparks Confusion Over Rules & Enforcement + WA May Miss Out on $700M in Education Funding

Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson is still deciding whether to join a new federal education tax credit program that supporters estimate could bring more than $700 million annually to Washington students. Meanwhile, Washington's 9.9% income tax faces new questions, and the Tacoma Urban League confirms its CEO has been terminated following months of scrutiny.

FEDERAL EDUCATION TAX CREDIT

Former Obama Education Secretary Arne Duncan is urging Gov. Bob Ferguson to opt into the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program. The program offers taxpayers up to $1,700 in federal tax credits for qualifying scholarship donations. With new Treasury guidance released, Ferguson's office says it is reviewing the rules before making a decision.

WASHINGTON'S 9.9% INCOME TAX

Washington's new millionaire's tax is raising concerns over compliance, potential loopholes and implementation. Lawmakers and tax experts are examining how the 9.9% tax on income exceeding $1 million will work. Meanwhile, voters will decide Initiative 645 on November 3, which would repeal the income tax before it takes effect.

TACOMA URBAN LEAGUE CEO TERMINATED

The Center Square has confirmed that Tacoma Urban League CEO Desiree Wilkins Finch has been terminated after nearly a year on paid administrative leave. Her departure follows months of scrutiny involving allegations of potential self-dealing with taxpayer-funded Community Reinvestment Program grants. Whistleblower Cory Orvold discusses the allegations and her push for greater oversight. The organization has not disclosed the reason for the termination.

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