Washington governor seeks a sales tax increase to limit education cuts

Businesses such as Boeing and Microsoft are concerned that pulling more cash from education will lead to a less-qualified workforce down the line.

Washington business leaders who opposed an income tax proposal last year are signaling that they are prepared to embrace Gov. Chris Gregoire’s new revenue plan.

With further cuts to education on the line, Gregoire wants voters to approve a temporary increase in the state sales tax in the coming months. Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Co.’s commercial aircraft division, this week said the state must consider revenues along with reforms on the table.

"It’s a very difficult situation that we’re in with the budget," Albaugh said. "It’s very hard for me not to support what the governor is proposing."

By Molly Harbarger, The Oregonian

Full Story: http://www.oregonlive.com/clark-county/index.ssf/2011/12/washington_governor_seeks_a_sa.html