FINAL BILL REPORT

HJR 4220

As Passed Legislature

Brief Description:  Amending the Constitution to restrict the number of years excess levies by fire protection districts can be made.

Sponsors:  By Representatives Dunshee and Mulliken.

House Committee on Local Government & Housing

Senate Committee on State & Local Government

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

Background:

The Washington State Constitution specifies that propositions to levy additional taxes for fire protection district operating purposes must be limited to a period of one year.  An amendment to change the state constitution must be approved by a two‑thirds majority of both houses of the Legislature, followed by a majority of the people.

Summary:

A constitutional amendment is proposed to increase the one year period for authorizing a fire protection district operating levy.  Propositions to levy additional taxes for fire protection district operating purposes may be for a period of up to four years and up to six years for the construction, modernization or remodeling of facilities.

The secretary of state is directed to give proper notice of a constitutional amendment to be ratified by the people.

Votes on Final Passage:

House980

Senate480