HB 1278 - DIGEST

     Recognizes that the United States congress has the right to lay and collect taxes under the federal Constitution.

     Finds, however, that the congress does not have the right under the federal Constitution to withhold from the states the benefits of those taxes through unconstitutional mandates.

     Finds that most unconstitutional mandates prohibit Washington from implementing programs that would exceed federal expectations.

     Declares that, in light of the continuing unconstitutional withholding of the benefits of the taxes, the state of Washington hereby asserts its claim of sovereignty.