SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1317
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. |
As Reported by Senate Committee On:
Government Operations & Security, March 24, 2015
Title: An act relating to the lien for collection of sewer utility charges by counties.
Brief Description: Revising the lien for collection of sewer charges by counties.
Sponsors: Representatives Zeiger, Kilduff, Kirby, Wylie and Sawyer.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/11/15, 98-0.
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Security: 3/16/15, 3/24/15 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & SECURITY |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Roach, Chair; Pearson, Vice Chair; Liias, Ranking Minority Member; Dansel, Habib and McCoy.
Staff: Karen Epps (786-7424)
Background: Counties that operate a water or sewer system are required to have a lien on the applicable property for delinquent charges. The lien is for all charges, interest, and penalties, and attaches to the premises to which the services were provided. After 60 days, the county may bring a foreclosure action in superior court in the county where the property is located. The lien is subject to foreclosure in the same manner as the foreclosure of a real property tax lien.
Cities and towns have the authority to impose a sewerage lien for up to six months without recording with the county auditor. The sewerage lien is recorded in the same manner as a mechanic's lien. An action to foreclose a six months' lien may be commenced at any time after six months. The sewerage lien includes all charges, interest, penalties, and lien recording and release fees. Cities and towns operating their own municipal water system may also terminate water service to the applicable property until the charges are paid.
Summary of Bill: A county that operates a sewer or water system may impose a sewerage lien for up to six months without recording the lien with the county auditor. A county may enforce the lien by terminating water service to the property. A county may adopt a resolution or ordinance allowing a sewerage lien to be imposed by the county for up to one year without recording with the county auditor. The lien includes all charges, interest, penalties, and lien recording and release fees.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Using the sewerage lien method would be better for the county and for the citizens. This method will be easier for the county. The citizens will not incur the lien filing fee on top of their original debt. This bill allows counties to have six months before recording sewer liens. Cities currently have this option. This bill will allow efficiencies within the county and allow delinquent customers time to get those charges paid.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Zeiger, prime sponsor; Michael Shaw, Pierce County.
Persons Signed in to Testify But Not Testifying: No one.