Washington isn’t completely broken—but the state has declined dramatically over the last 12 years. There’s hope but we must take action.

‍
That was the message Todd Myers of the Washington Policy Center shared with the BIAW Board of Directors at the 2025 Fall Board Meeting last week as he outlined how local leadership and practical reforms can help renew Washington’s future.
‍

Progress is possible—if we focus on what works
‍

Myers opened with a blunt reminder: good intentions aren’t enough. Washington spent roughly $45 million in 2024 to subsidize electric vehicle sales. The result? A 0.03% reduction in transportation-related CO₂ emissions. That program didn’t make the next budget.
‍

His point was clear. Big spending doesn’t guarantee big results.
‍

With more than two decades working on environmental issues in Washington, Myers has studied, spoken about and authored books detailing what really works when it comes to environmental policy—and many times it’s not what policymakers choose to pursue.
‍

A tougher climate for business
‍

Misguided, politically driven agendas don’t just affect Washington’s natural environment. They’ve dramatically harmed the business climate as well.
‍

Washington once ranked among the best states for taxes and business competitiveness. A decade later, we’ve fallen to 5th worst. Small businesses—long the backbone of the state economy—are failing at the highest rate in the nation. More than

40% don’t make it past their first year, nearly double the national average.
‍

For Myers, the message is simple: if we care about jobs, opportunity and strong communities, we must create an environment where employers can survive and grow.
‍

Where is all the money going?
‍

General fund spending jumped nearly 49% since 2013, adjusted for inflation and population. Agencies want $1.3 billion more in the upcoming supplemental budget. And even with the largest proposed tax increase in state history, Washington faces a projected $750 million shortfall.

‍
In the state’s latest revenue forecast, 18% of the shortfall is due to a slump in residential construction. As noted in a recent BIAW blog post, building permits are projected to be their lowest level since 2013, new home sales are down and housing starts fell by 6% since August 2024.
‍

A reason for optimism: local action

‍
Despite statewide challenges, Myers says local communities are stepping up. In recent elections, voters in diverse places—from Bellevue to Olympia—chose practical, good-governance candidates and rejected policies they felt went too far.
‍

The common theme? Voters feel “exhausted.” They want clarity, accountability and leaders who solve real problems.
‍

Renew Washington by empowering people
‍

Myers closed with a hopeful path forward. Renewal starts at home—with local control, transparent schools, smarter spending and giving taxpayers and parents more say.
‍

To renew Washington, we must fix problems locally, trust people over bureaucracy and bring power back to the communities that know their needs best.
‍

BIAW frequently hosts campaign schools to help members get involved and run for office.
‍

Sign up for the next one in Oak Harbor or join the waiting list!

‍