Washington state Democrats passed a proposal on Wednesday to impose a 9.9% state income tax on high earners, and the bill awaits Governor Bob Ferguson’s signature to become law.
Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider said during a radio interview Thursday that the measure would make it much harder for his team to sign new players. “So yeah, it’s going to sting from a recruiting standpoint,” Schneider stated. He noted that Washington state has long been an attractive location for professional sports teams, particularly when competing with California.
The tax proposal applies to individuals earning $1 million or more annually. Schneider explained that the NFL minimum salary for players who have already played one season in 2026 exceeds $1 million, meaning any free agent signed by the Seahawks would be subject to the tax. Schneider reported that some players’ agents have texted him: “Hey, can’t use that anymore, buddy, you know?”
Governor Ferguson has pledged to sign the bill. If implemented, the state would begin collecting payments in 2029. The law faces potential legal challenges but is expected to become effective after the governor’s signature. Critics argue the tax will drive high-earning individuals and companies out of the state, potentially taking with them significant revenue. Billionaire Howard Schultz recently relocated from Washington state to Florida, which has no state income tax; however, he did not cite the proposed tax as the reason for his departure.
The Seahawks won the Super Bowl championship in February after defeating the New England Patriots 29-13.
