Free Republic

OLYMPIA — The Washington Association of Realtors has launched a $1 million campaign aimed at squashing a proposed tax increase on real-estate sales. "We are committed to doing whatever it takes to prevent any increase," said Steve Francks, the association's executive vice president. "I've never seen our members this mobilized." The group has started running TV, radio and newspaper ads warning that the tax increase would cost homeowners thousands of dollars in "hard-earned equity" when they go to sell. But in their fight, the Realtors face an unlikely foe: the typically anti-tax Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW). The homebuilders...

I did my taxes Friday night and was totally blown away by what a difference the tax changes made. For a little background, I make low 30's, have 2 kids, and am the one that brings home the bacon. I did get the tax rebate for one kid (other is too old at 17). Last year, mid-year, I got a raise ($1), and was worried it would mess me up- in the past, raises have been a mixed blessing- more money- and more taxes. This year though, even with the raise, *less* money was flying out of my check to...