How about those initiatives?

Back to the state of Washington for some news on the initiatives that were on the ballot.

First, the good news:

I-1053, which restores the requirements to raise taxes initially imposed by I-960 three years ago, is passing by a large margin. This isn't surprising. We meant it when we passed 960; now the legislature has been told this in no uncertain terms.

I-1098, the income tax on top earners, is going down to a flaming defeat. Let's hope this monster never raises its head again. I wouldn't be surprised if the legislature tries to impose one within the next couple of years, however.

I-1107, which rolls back new taxes on certain food items, is winning handily. I don't care that these items are things like candy and gum, it's the principle of the thing. Good job.

I-1105, one of the initiatives that would privatize liquor sales, is being defeated handily. I ended up voting against this one as I preferred the other initiative that addressed getting the state out of the liquor business.

The not so good news:

I-1082, which would have privatized industrial insurance (i.e. workers' comp), is going down to defeat. I wasn't sure at the time I posted my recommendations but I ended up voting for it.

I-1100, my preferred initiative for privatizing liquor sales, is currently losing but not by much. Currently enough votes from King County, where the initiative was leading, remain to be counted that it could still pass.