WA Senate Approves 9.9% Tax on Incomes Over $1M, Impacts Seahawks

The Washington state Senate has approved a new 9.9 percent tax on annual incomes exceeding $1 million, a measure that could complicate the Seattle Seahawks' efforts to attract top NFL talent despite the team's recent Super Bowl victory. The legislation, passed on March 11 by a 27-21 vote, awaits the signature of Governor Bob Ferguson, who has indicated his support. If enacted, the tax would take effect in 2028, with the first payments due in 2029, marking the state's first income tax and targeting roughly 0.5 percent of residents, including most professional athletes.

For the Seahawks, fresh off their Super Bowl LX triumph in February, the change eliminates a longstanding recruiting advantage. Washington has historically lacked a state income tax, one of only eight NFL markets without such a levy, alongside teams in Texas, Florida, Nevada, and Tennessee. This no-tax status has helped Seattle compete for players against high-tax states like California, where rates reach 13.3 percent. Seahawks general manager John Schneider highlighted the shift during an appearance on Seattle Sports 710AM, noting that agents have already reacted. "There were a bunch of agents texting me the...