News from WCBA President Carolyn Beko:

As your newly elected president, I’m proud to share how far we’ve come in our efforts to repeal the sales tax that goes into effect January 1st.
I’ve seen firsthand how much dedication and expertise the coin dealer community holds — and how powerful we are when we work together.

Our WCBA Board has built a strong, unified voice for Washington’s precious-metals community — meeting with legislators, coordinating outreach, and hiring experienced lobbyists to ensure our message is heard. So that we can restore the exemption for coins and bars, which is sound tax policy.

On November 4, I met with Representative Amy Walen (D-Kirkland) and – per the recommendation of our lobbyist Mark Gjurasic – I asked her to serve as the prime sponsor of our bill to be introduced in January. She said “Yes!”

That’s the kind of progress that comes from teamwork, persistence, and showing up. Then, on Nov. 18th, I met with Rep. Ed Orcutt (R-Kalama), and he has agreed to be a cosponsor of our bill. We now have two more legislative meetings scheduled, and our momentum continues to build.

• Rep. Strom Peterson (D-Edmonds) – December 1
• Sen. Marcus Riccelli (D-Spokane) – December 8

But this is a fight — one that takes resources, time, and shared commitment. Our lobbyists, outreach, and advocacy requires continued financial support. Many of you have been in this industry for decades, and your experience and investment matter more than ever. If you haven’t contributed yet, please consider doing so today. Every donation, large or small, helps us keep the pressure on in Olympia and protect the future of our businesses.  

Note about receipts for donations:  The Internal Revenue Code Section 162(e)(1) forbids deducting dues to an association as a business expense if the primary use of the funds is to pass legislation. Because of this, the WCBA does not issue tax receipts for donations. 

We’ve come a long way — and together, we can win this! 

Portland Show – Strong Outreach last weekend
I just got back from the Portland show and had face-to-face conversations with most of the WA dealers. I thanked those who have already contributed and secured $2,800 in new donations from three dealers. Several others gave verbal commitments that I’ll be following up on.

Media – Seattle Times article
An excellent article about what the legislature has done (taxing coins and bars) was carried in this last Sunday’s Seattle Times (Nov. 16th).  It is well written but it’s too bad this didn’t come out last March!  Please print copies of the article and display it in your shop. It helps reinforce the seriousness of this issue and shows customers that we’re actively working on their behalf. 

Thank you for your dues. PLEASE, if you have not yet sent them in, please consider how important this effort is.  Check out our website  www.washingtoncoinandbullionassoc.com.
Please be generous with your donation so we can continue to have effective lobbying representation in Olympia.

Let’s keep building on this energy into December and the 2026 legislative session that starts in January.

With appreciation,
Carolyn Beko
President, Washington Coin & Bullion Association
cb@redmondrarecoinsllc.com
(425) 823-2646