In a decision released today, the Washington Supreme Court ruled that Initiative 1053, the law that requires a two-thirds majority to pass revenue in the Legislature, is unconstitutional. This ruling is considered a huge win for local advocates for children and schools.
The court’s ruling is in response to a lawsuit filed by the League of Education Voters and other groups against I-1053, an initiative sponsored by Tim Eyman in 2010 that reinstated the two-thirds requirement.
Attorneys say this means the Legislature can now pass a tax increase with a simple majority vote in both chambers, plus approval by the governor.
Proponents of the ruling hope that it gives legislators the tools and opportunities they need to craft a funding plan that ensures there is ample, equitable and stable funding for education.
To read more from the League of Education Voters, visit their website. In light of the recent ruling, the League has a petition circulating that asks legislators to come up with a plan to fully fund schools.
