FINAL BILL REPORT
SSB 6149
C 42 L 26
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Concerning the definition of "rural county" for purposes of public facilities funding.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Business, Trade & Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Wilson, J., Dozier, Short and Chapman).
Senate Committee on Business, Trade & Economic Development
House Committee on Technology, Economic Development, & Veterans
Background:

A rural county is defined as a county with a population density less than 100 persons per square mile or a county smaller than 225 square miles, as determined by the Office of Financial Management. Several statutes use this definition for tax and other assistance programs, including but not limited to statutes referencing public facilities loans and grants, the coordination of community and economic development services, and excise taxes. As of 2025, there are 29 rural counties.
Summary:

The definition of rural county is changed. In addition to the current definition, a county with a population density of 100 persons per square mile or greater, with no city with a population greater than 45,000 persons, is also defined as a rural county.
Votes on Final Passage:
Final Passage Votes
Senate 48 1
House 93 1
Effective:

June 11, 2026