HB 2010 - DIGEST

Declares an intent to provide funding for counties for planning, implementing, and maintaining digital geographic information systems for use by counties in administering the ad valorem property tax system of the state, and for related purposes as authorized by chapter 82.46 RCW.

Finds that the use of digital geographic information systems provides an efficient means for counties to prepare and possess parcel maps as described under RCW 84.40.160 for lands within the counties of the state, and to continually update these maps to reflect transfers, acquisitions, conveyances, and other events that change the boundary of parcels.

Finds that digital geographic information systems provide efficient and effective means to map and geographically analyze data created and compiled in meeting the requirements of Washington's planning enabling act and growth management act.

Finds that digital geographic information systems provide capabilities to store and analyze information that improves the health, welfare, and security of the citizens of the state of Washington by providing accurate property information, parcel maps, and addresses for emergency services response and other public safety needs.

Finds that due to the numerous users of property information, and the many entities that rely on the accuracy and timeliness of the information provided by geographic information systems, it is in the best interest of the citizens of the state to provide a means for counties to fund these systems.

Authorizes the legislative authority of any county to impose an additional excise tax on each sale of real property in the county at a rate not to exceed one-eighth of one percent of the selling price. The proceeds of the tax shall be used exclusively for planning, implementing, and maintaining geographic information systems for use in administering the ad valorem property tax system of the state, and for related purposes as authorized by this chapter.