Spokane’s business community unites at GSI’s Olympia Fly-In to shape policies, advocate for growth, and ensure Spokane’s future prosperity.
Read Time: 4 min, 30 sec
Spokane Businesses Take Their Voice to Olympia
Imagine a room full of energy, where Spokane regional business leaders, policymakers, community champions, and advocates, both seasoned and new, are all working toward the same goal: to push Spokane forward. With the largest delegation from Spokane in attendance, there’s a powerful mix of fresh perspectives and experienced voices working together to drive change for our community and present the legislative agenda.
At the GSI Olympia Fly-In, these voices came together to craft a story that helps reshape the legislative landscape and ensures our community’s priorities are front and center.
Whether you’re a business owner, an employer, or a community leader, this is where your perspective and a unified agenda powers community projects and addresses issues that directly impact your business.
Key Issues Discussed at Olympia Fly-In
To kick off our event, we met with the Association of Washington Businesses (AWB). Kris Johnson, Morgan Irwin, and Max Martin introduced several key issues they are focusing on that impact the business community. The biggest areas were the budget, proposed road usage charge, and employment law and tax proposals. Later in our trip, we met with Lindsey Hueer, also of AWB, who provided an exceptional rundown of major business and employment law proposals.
After meeting with AWB, we made way for Capital Hill and started discussions with legislators from both sides of the Cascades and the aisle on a host of bills that could have significant statewide implications. Spokane County Commissioner Josh Kerns shared on Facebook, “Having a productive trip with Greater Spokane Incorporated in Olympia advocating for regional priorities!”
Understanding the Budget Crisis and its Impact on Spokane
The most pressing issue on everyone’s mind was the budget crisis. Unfortunately, the path forward remains unclear even after three days of conversations. The prevailing message from all sides is to expect a mix of tax increases alongside the governor’s budget cuts.
The North Spokane Corridor: A Critical Priority for Spokane
Another top priority was the North Spokane Corridor (NSC), where Spokane came out united for the prioritization of the project and its impact. While transportation budget cuts seem inevitable, there was cautious optimism that the NSC could remain on schedule. Compared to other state mega-projects, the NSC appears to have been well-managed financially and administratively.
Tax and Employment Law Proposals: Navigating Change
On the tax front, the state is considering shifting from a gas tax to a road usage charge, with HB 1921 proposing to help offset declining gas tax revenues as vehicles become more fuel-efficient and electrified. Opponents of the bill raised concerns about systemic challenges, including tracking out-of-state driving and collecting revenues from non-residents. Another major tax proposal under discussion is HB 1320, which seeks to raise Business & Occupation (B&O) tax rates. After extensive discussions, there was a general consensus that some form of a B&O tax hike is likely to pass as part of efforts to address the budget shortfall.
Among the most concerning legislative proposal for attendees was HB 1764, which would raise the state minimum wage to $25 per hour by 2031. While initial discussions indicated skepticism about the bill’s viability, there was also noticeable reluctance among several lawmakers to outright oppose it. One legislator expressed specific concern that a ballot initiative could ultimately force the state’s hand.
Why Do These Issues and Bills Matter to Your Business?
- HB 1320 – Business & Occupation (B&O) Tax Proposals: Why it matters: Increasing B&O taxes raises the cost of doing business, reducing reinvestment potential, job creation, and overall competitiveness for Spokane businesses.
- HB 1764 – Minimum Wage Increases: Why it matters: A $25/hour minimum wage would drive up labor costs, forcing businesses to raise prices, cut jobs, automate, or relocate to stay viable—especially in industries with thin margins.
- Proposed Road Usage Charge: Why it matters: Shifting from a gas tax to a road usage charge could increase transportation costs for businesses that rely on shipping, commuting employees, and supply chain logistics.
GSI’s Year-Round Advocacy Strategy
The Olympia Fly-In is one of many opportunities for businesses to engage in policy advocacy. GSI’s structured approach ensures that Spokane’s business community is represented at every level of government through key events such as:
- Legislative Kickoff (December): Identifies key policy priorities for the session.
- Olympia Fly-In (February): Connects business leaders directly with state legislators.
- Washington D.C. Fly-In (May): Advocates for Spokane’s interests at the federal level.
- Legislative Wrap-Up (May): Summarizes policy outcomes and their impact on businesses.
Get Involved & Make an Impact
Spokane’s future depends on business leaders like you engaging in advocacy efforts. Whether you’re an established business owner or just starting, your voice matters in shaping policies that affect our region.
We extend our thanks to AWB, the Building Industry Association of Washington, and all the legislators who took the time to meet with us and attend our grand reception.
We also want to thank our Event Sponsors: MultiCare, Providence, Alaska Airlines, WSU Health Sciences, and TC Energy. You helped make this event possible.
Finally, we deeply appreciate our GSI members for their active participation in making this event a meaningful and successful experience and are looking forward to our DC Fly-In happening in May.
Together we’re greater!
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Related Articles
GSI Supports Alcohol Impact Area Ordinance
WA Budget Crisis: GSI Joins Nonpartisan Business Coalition
2025 Legislative Update Week 4
Supporting HB 1114: GSI’s Role in Strengthening Healthcare & Military Support in Spokane
