Washington State House votes to pause WA Cares Act, measure heads to Senate

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Washington State legislators in the House have voted to put the controversial WA Cares Act on pause.

Under the measure approved Wednesday, January 19th, the tax that was set to start this month would be delayed until July 1, 2023.

Any premiums that are collected before that date will be refunded.

Collection to pay for in-home care, wheelchair ramps, and rides to the doctor would also be delayed from Jan. 1, 2025 until July 1, 2026.

Lawmakers have expressed concerns about the long-term solvency of the program, and have criticized the timing of the payroll tax.

The measure now heads to the state Senate.