An initiative aimed at making Washington’s long-term care program and its associated tax voluntary for residents was defeated on Tuesday. Approximately 55.5% of voters opposed Initiative 2124, while 44.5% supported it. The measure was one of four on the statewide ballot this year, with additional votes expected to be counted throughout the week.
National news outlets announced the results late Tuesday night. If passed, the initiative would have amended the WA Cares program, allowing individuals to opt out of the program at any time. Currently, most workers in Washington are required to participate in the program and pay the tax that funds it.
Critics of the initiative argued that making the program voluntary could jeopardize its financial viability. Higher earners, who contribute more to the fund, would likely choose to opt out, leaving the program with fewer resources at a time when the aging population in Washington is increasing the demand for care.
The WA Cares program imposes a 0.58% tax on the paychecks of workers in Washington. Starting in July 2026, those who qualify will be able to access a lifetime benefit of $36,500, an amount that will increase annually to keep pace with inflation. This benefit can be utilized for expenses related to caregiving, medical equipment, medications, and meals.
The initiative was one of three measures on the ballot supported by Let’s Go Washington, a conservative organization backed by hedge fund manager Brian Heywood. All three proposals, including efforts to repeal the state’s cap-and-trade climate law and capital gains tax, were rejected on Tuesday.
Since its inception in 2019, the WA Cares program has faced criticism. Opponents argue that many taxpayers may never fully utilize the benefits, while others contend that the benefits are insufficient compared to the high costs associated with long-term care. Additionally, some critics have raised concerns about the program’s financial sustainability, suggesting that it may require a tax increase in the future to remain solvent.
Supporters of the program maintain that it is a crucial solution to the growing need for long-term care as the state’s population ages. The Legislature has already implemented changes to the program since the tax took effect last year, including more exemptions for individuals who work in Washington but reside out of state, as well as for spouses of active-duty military personnel.
Initially, those with private long-term care insurance were allowed to permanently opt out, but this exemption is no longer available. Recently, lawmakers also made the program “portable,” enabling those who leave the state after contributing for at least ten years to still access the benefits.
