NW Washington News

Rep. Drew MacEwen (R-Union) discussed a number of bills he believes would help businesses feel less worried about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rising unemployment insurance costs, capacity controls and shutdowns are challenges to both employers and employees.

“We need the economy going to get through this, to provide livelihoods that are necessary for people to make ends meet,” MacEwan said.

He thinks allowing businesses to extend their license renewal until next year and still allow them to operate without the burden of the renewal would be of great assistance to the business sector.

Tax relief and capping unemployment insurance costs are also in the works.

“The increase in unemployment insurance would be a huge burden for employers to meet that might actually force them into a situation where they will lay off more employees if they can’t afford the unemployment insurance that goes under the payroll tax,” MacEwan remarked. “Again they’re looking at a 500 percent increase.”

MacEwen, who had recently introduced the companion bill to SB 5114, labeled House Bill 1321, said he is also working on some bills with Rep. Stokesbary to provide funds to both businesses and citizens.

A bill on property tax relief for senior citizens and veterans is also in the pipeline.

Constituents who would want to testify on bills, which MacEwen’s office encourages, may contact his office at 360-868-6304 or send an email to drew.macewen@leg.wa.gov.