Reps. Abell and Engell discuss income tax vote, budget concerns, and key 7th District priorities on KOZI

February 27, 2026

Reps. Hunter Abell and Andrew Engell joined Jeff Conwell on KOZI Radio to provide a legislative update as session nears its final weeks.

Abell discussed the proposed state income tax on high earners, raising constitutional concerns and warning that what begins as a “millionaire’s tax” could eventually expand to impact middle-class families. He also noted the overwhelming public opposition registered through legislative comments and emails. Abell criticized the majority’s supplemental operating budget, calling it continued overspending following last year’s tax increases.

Engell highlighted bipartisan work to amend a tenant air conditioning bill to reduce burdens on landlords, as well as progress on his diagnostic imaging legislation aimed at protecting access to contrast CT scans in rural hospitals.

The lawmakers also reviewed their “battle damage assessment,” noting several bills that were stopped or improved this session, including proposals related to wildfire building codes, public encampments, and expanded investigative powers for the Attorney General.