OLYMPIA -- Tim Eyman, the prime sponsor of Initiative 960, warned "citizens are watching arrogant Democrats who think the law doesn't apply to them."

This bill means you are above the Constitution. Voters have made clear that if state government is going to raise taxes, it must be a two-thirds vote or a vote of the people. You're violating the law, you're sidestepping the constitution ... and believe the voters don't have a right to know what you're doing."

The system is working, he said: "If you can't get two-thirds of your colleagues to sign on to the bill, put it before the voters. You haven't even done that."

"Drop this stuff about the transparency provisions. The two-thirds is bad enough."

Sen. Adam Kline, D-Seattle, told Eyman the Legislature has to balance many things, including the need for revenue as well as the need.for spending.

"You've talked about one side, as you usually do. I'd like you to speak about the other side."

Voters passed an initiative requiring performance audits, Eyman said.

"You're not answering my question," Kline said.

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