AFFORDABILITY
Washington families are feeling the squeeze. Housing, groceries, fuel, childcare, and utility costs continue to rise faster than pay. State government cannot solve every economic challenge, but it should stop making affordability worse. I support policies that reduce unnecessary costs, encourage economic growth, and help families keep more of their income. The best affordability policy is often letting families keep more of what they earn. Government should focus on efficient delivery of core services while protecting taxpayers from unnecessary tax increases, excessive fees, and costly regulatory mandates.
Lower Housing Costs
Washington families cannot afford homes when government regulations make housing more expensive to build. I support reducing unnecessary permitting delays, streamlining environmental review, and reforming state and local regulations that drive costs. The Legislature needs to take the housing supply crisis seriously.
Washington recently enacted statewide rent control policies and numerous landlord-tenant law changes that drive housing providers out. While well-intended, these policies discourage investment in rental housing and reduce the supply of available units. The state should focus on increasing housing supply and encouraging new construction rather than adopting policies that further restrict availability.
The decisions of the State Building Code Council add tens of thousands of dollars to the cost of new home construction. While environmental concerns and energy efficiency are important, affordability has to be a driving factor when adopting new building mandates. Washington should ensure that every new code requirement delivers benefits that justify the additional cost imposed on homebuyers and renters.
Reduce Fuel Costs for Families and Small Businesses
Transportation costs affect nearly every Washington household. Recent fuel-related taxes have increased costs that are ultimately passed on to consumers through higher fuel prices and higher prices on everyday goods. I support policies that prioritize affordable energy and transportation while maintaining environmental stewardship.
Stop Tax Increases That Raise the Cost of Living
Washington families are already struggling with inflation, housing costs, and rising utility bills. State government should focus on responsible budgeting rather than imposing new taxes and fees that make it harder for families to get ahead and more difficult for employers to create jobs.
Make Child Care More Affordable
For many families, childcare costs rival a mortgage or rent payment. We need to reduce unnecessary regulations that limit childcare capacity and drive operating costs for providers, thereby ensuring childcare subsidy dollars go farther and serve our rural communities.
Reduce Regulatory Costs on Job Providers
Every new regulation carries a cost. Those costs eventually show up in the prices consumers pay for groceries, services, housing, and other necessities. State government should conduct regular reviews of regulations and eliminate rules that provide little public benefit while increasing costs for consumers and employers.