OLYMPIA — “What does the phrase will of the people mean to you,” Sen. Don Benton asked the Ways and Means Committee.
Of course Initiative 960 makes raising taxes more difficult, Benton said. But that’s what the people wanted. It also makes government more transparent.
“Too many of our citizens find the legislative process a mystery,” Benton said. “Too often legislators hear more from lobbyists than their constituents.”
THe voters did support the initiative, he said. “Why does public knowledge frighten so many here?”
Don’t throw out the rules for giving more information on the cost of legislation to the public.
Jim Camden is a veteran political reporter for The Spokesman-Review.
Jonathan Brunt covers Spokane City Hall for The Spokesman-Review.
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