Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Finance Committee |
HB 1397
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Exempting property owned or used by community and technical colleges from property tax.
Sponsors: Representatives Dolan, Van Werven, Appleton, Pollet and Kilduff; by request of State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/27/17
Staff: Richelle Geiger (786-7139).
Background:
All property is subject to a tax each year based on the highest and best use, unless a specific exemption is provided by law. Many educational institutions are exempt from property tax, including public and private nonprofit colleges, universities, and K-12 schools. Currently, community colleges and technical colleges are subject to property tax.
Community colleges are generally nonresidential colleges focused on serving the needs of the local community. Technical colleges are higher education institutions with the mission of conducting occupational education, basic skills, literacy programs and offering, on short notice and when appropriate, programs that meet specific industry needs.
Summary of Bill:
Property owned and used by community colleges and technical colleges is exempt from all property tax.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.