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Washington employers are looking for the exit | Commentary
AWB said 24% of more than 400 employers now are considering moving their businesses out of Washington, up from 17% last quarter.
AWB's spring survey of more than 400 employers found 24% are considering moving their business out of Washington, nearly triple the rate from a winter survey 16 months ago.
Interest in relocating spiked shortly after legislators passed a new income tax, which employers fear erodes Washington's competitive advantages while other states actively recruit businesses to leave.
Business leaders are also considering personal moves, with 55% looking out of state; 67% of respondents in Spokane County report the same intent.
Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti likens Washington's low reserves to a "check engine" light, warning of a multi-billion-dollar shortfall when legislators return to the Capitol.
Kris Johnson of the Washington Business Association urges legislators to write a budget that lives within the state's means, advocating for a pro-growth economic plan.