Washington State government would love to have an income tax. Most states and the federal government tax personal income (they get your money first). When government helps themselves to your income, it makes it difficult or impossible to save money for your own future.

Income taxation was established in 1913 by a small group of extremely wealthy bankers. After almost 100 years, most people accept income taxation as fair and normal.

Initiative 1098 will amend our state constitution. It will open the door for income tax in our state. Time and time again wealthy liberal elites have tried to slip an income tax into Washington State. When did they ever suggest amending our constitution to relieve mandatory spending?

Don’t be fooled by Bill Gates Sr., (Big Billy). Big Billy says “1098 will reduce state property tax by 20 percent and eliminate the B&O tax.” Big Billy says “1098 will add 2 billion dollars to education and health care.” In tough economic times, “sacred-cow” programs can justify increased funding and dangerous new taxes. Once such programs get new funding, it becomes mandatory spending.

Big Billy’s 1098 won’t reduce property taxes very much; most of the tax is imposed by King County and the school district. Any reduction in property tax will be temporary. Elimination of the B&O tax will be made up with numerous other taxes.

Remember: What goes around comes around. First they hit the smokers, then beer and wine, then bottled water and candy, now they want the rich 1.2 percent. If you think you won’t have to pay the new income tax, your time is coming.

— Jeff Schnelz