SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6662

BYSenator Bailey

Authorizing a county utility tax for public health.

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 4, 1988

Senate Staff:William Bafus (786-7437)

AS OF FEBRUARY 3, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The duties and responsibilities of local public health boards and public health officers have been growing over recent years. Since the elimination of the revenue source dedicated to public health, cities, towns and counties have been required to share the costs out of their general operating budgets.  This has become increasingly difficult. 

SUMMARY:

Counties are authorized to levy a county-wide tax at a maximum rate of one percent upon the retail sales of electrical, gas, telephone, water and sewer utilities.  The proceeds of the tax must be devoted to funding public health departments and programs.  Exemptions may be provided for senior citizens sixty-five years old and older and/or for persons who would qualify for an exemption from property taxes on their residence because of disability and/or income.  Filing of referendum petitions for repeal is permitted.  Counties that levy this tax must assume full responsibility for funding county-wide public health services.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Effective Date:January 1, 1989