I-1100 certified, I-1082 being checked

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Secretary of State Sam Reed Monday afternoon certified Initiative 1100, the last step for the liquor privatization measure to be placed on this November’s ballot. Using a random sample method, the I-1100 signature check was completed late Friday afternoon after only two days of work, a day or two sooner than anticipated. As expected, it easily qualified for the fall ballot. One of two liquor initiatives to privatize liquor sales in Washington, the 1100 campaign turned in about 396,000 signatures, way more than the 241,153 valid signatures necessary to make the ballot. Because of the large number of signatures turned in, I-1100 underwent only a 3 percent random sample check. Signature checkers began their work Monday morning on Initiative 1082, the BIAW-backed proposal that would allow “three-way” workers’ compensation, with private insurance carriers offering coverage in competition with the state-run program. The 1082 campaign delivered about 345,000 signatures, meaning it will also receive a 3 percent check. State elections officials hope the I-1082 check will be finished on Wednesday. After the I-1082 check is done, here is the remaining order of initiatives to be examined: I-1098: Supported by Bill Gates Sr., it would create a state income tax on high-wage earners and would reduce the state share of the property tax and lower the B&O tax on many businesses. (351,000) I-1053: The Tim Eyman-sponsored measure would re-establish the two-thirds vote requirement for the state Legislature to raises taxes. It turned in about 330,000 signatures. I-1105: The other liquor initiative, supported by wholesalers, would take the state out of the liquor retail business. Whereas I-1100 would let retailers buy liquor stock directly from manufacturers, I-1105 would require use of wholesalers. (359,000) I-1107: It would repeal new taxes on certain candy, pop, beer and bottled water. Backed by the American Beverage Association, it brought in 395,000 signatures in only three weeks. The Legislature has sent three other measures to the statewide ballot this fall:

• Referendum 52 would authorize bonds to finance construction and repair projects increasing energy efficiency in public schools and higher education buildings, and continue the sales tax on bottled water otherwise expiring in 2013.

• House Joint Resolution 4220, known as the “Lakewood Police Officers Memorial Act,” would amend the state constitution on bail requirements for judges.

• Senate Joint Resolution 8225 would amend the state constitution relating to debt limits for the state.