1) Job Creation. Given the high unemployment rate in Washington state, Rob McKenna's plan for job creation has a good chance of working. Two of the largest barriers to the survival of small businesses are the sales tax system, which is based on destination and the fact that all revenues are taxed, not just net receipts. With different counties and cities charging different sales tax rates, this rule is an administrative headache for small businesses. This requirement is a burden both at the start of a sale, as the proper tax rate must be determined to give customers accurate quotes, and after the sale, when detailed records must be kept and systems put in place to ensure that sales tax is applied to the correct taxing district. All of this adds to the complexity and expense of tax compliance for small businesses. Rob's solution is to return to origin-based sales tax collection, so small business owners need only be familiar with sales taxes rules in their location, not every location in the state. Or, consider relief such as offering a sales tax collection allowance to offset the costs of collecting sales tax. The second problem is the B&O (Business and Occupation) tax is a burden for small businesses which, collectively, are the largest employer in the state. Rob's solution is to Small businesses, particularly those with small profit margins, struggle to keep their doors open in this economy. The flawed income tax initiative from 2010 (I‑1098) offered one good idea, increasing the Business & Occupation tax credit to $4,800 per year for small businesses in all categories. The estimated cost of this credit is less than two percent of the state's revenues, while more than 118,000 small businesses would be exempted from the cost and headaches of paying the B&O tax. This credit could be phased in over time, and funded in part by changing outdated or ineffective tax policies and preferences.
2) Rob McKenna has worked on cases to combat the problem of underage girls being exploited for sexual purposes. This effort of his shows his commitment to justice for all.
Unfortunately, sex trafficking is a big problem, and McKenna has worked to fight this as best as he can. Justice for all, not just a select few, is something that Jewish voters can identify with and support.
3) Education: McKenna's education plan will help Washington State students become more competitive state-wide and nationally. As we know, Washington State is an important player in the technology field as well as biotechnology. Having a governor who understands this is vital to our state's future success.
