SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5866

BYSenators Rasmussen, Pullen and Talmadge

Permitting the use of credit cards to pay certain taxes.

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 21, 1989; February 28, 1989

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5866 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators McCaslin, Chairman; Thorsness, Vice Chairman; Conner, Pullen.

Senate Staff:Sam Thompson (786-7754); Eugene Green (786-7405)

                  March 1, 1989

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS, FEBRUARY 28, 1989

BACKGROUND:

In certain circumstances, public institutions, courts and state agencies are authorized to accept payment of fees and fines by credit card and are authorized to use credit cards for purchases.  State bank credit cards may be used by students to pay tuition, fees and other expenses at public colleges and universities.  Credit cards may be used by courts of limited jurisdiction for billing and collecting unpaid penalties and costs.  State agencies are authorized to make purchases with credit cards.

In recent legislative sessions, proposals for payment of assessments and taxes by credit card have been advanced.

SUMMARY:

County treasurers must accept payment of taxes, interest and penalties by credit card, provided that the financial institution issuing the card guarantees full payment, without discount or other cost or charge.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

County treasurers are given the option of accepting payment of taxes by credit card.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Fred Saeger, Washington Association of County Officials (con)