Washington’s Business Cost Crisis | Spokane News

Washington State’s affordability crisis isn’t just hurting families—it’s crushing businesses too. Rising wages are only part of the problem; when you add up unemployment insurance, workers’ comp, paid leave, taxes, regulations, and rising costs of goods and insurance, employers face a 40%+ markup on base pay. Profit margins are vanishing, forcing companies to raise prices—which hits consumers and fuels a vicious cycle. The state’s tax structure, especially the unique B&O tax on gross revenue, adds extra strain. Now’s the time to pause new mandates, include business owners in policy decisions, and streamline regulations—starting with the governor’s new Economic Development Council. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d06552795dde3058