SENATE BILL REPORT

HJR 4227

BYRepresentatives Haugen, Ferguson, Zellinsky, Wood, Nutley, Nealey, Rayburn, Horn, Cooper, Kirby, Raiter, Scott, Cole, Kremen, Jones, Fraser, Todd, Leonard, Basich, Holland, Phillips, Wang, May and Brough

Amending the Constitution to allow property taxing districts to impose six-year tax levies.

House Committe on Revenue

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 22, 1990

Senate Staff:Terry Wilson (786-7715)

AS OF FEBRUARY 22, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Taxing districts, other than school districts, may impose property tax levies in excess of the 1 percent constitutional limit for general purposes for a one-year period if authorized by the voters of the district.  School districts may impose excess property tax levies for one or two years for any purpose and for up to six years for construction, modernization, or remodeling of school facilities.

Districts seeking voter approval for excess levies are subject to the 60 percent/40 percent voter approval requirement (60 percent favorable vote of at least 40 percent of those voting in the last general election).

SUMMARY:

Taxing districts, other than the state, may impose excess levies for periods up to six years subject to 60 percent/40 percent voter approval.  The proposed constitutional amendment authorizing six year levies is to be placed before the voters for their approval or rejection in November 1990.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    yes

Fiscal Note:      available

House Committee ‑ Testified For:    Fred Saeger, Washington Association of County Officials; and Jim Slatino, MPD.

House Committee - Testified Against:      No one.

House Committee - Testimony For:    A constitutional amendment is necessary to permit most taxing districts to request voter approved, excess levies to be imposed for periods longer than one year.

House Committee - Testimony Against:      None.