It is with some fear that I use the Dark Side to ask a serious question. But, here goes.

As I understand the WA Constitution, state tax rate must be equal across all payers. That is, flat rate. Depending as much as we do on sales taxes makes planning difficult.

Why not have the following, based on Federal Tax Returns, using their definitions and actual Form Lines. Made up numbers, just for discussion. Tax earned income is taxed at 1%, interest and dividends at 2%, and capitol gains at 3%. The rates would be set by figuring how to just replace the state's portion of the sales tax. Also, eliminate the State's taxes (excise) on big sales such as cars, houses, etc.

Flame away.