Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2137

Introduced
1/8/24  
Refer
1/8/24  
Report Pass
1/19/24  
Refer
1/23/24  
Engrossed
2/8/24  
Refer
2/12/24  
Report Pass
2/15/24  
Enrolled
3/4/24  
Chaptered
3/13/24  

Caption

Concerning technical changes to allowable exemptions for tourism promotion area assessments.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2137 is expected to have a notable impact on state laws concerning tourism promotion funding mechanisms. The adjustments to exemption standards could foster more robust tourism initiatives, indirectly supporting local economies relying heavily on tourism revenue. Commodities associated with tourism, such as hospitality services and local attractions, might benefit from this shift, making them more competitive and attracting larger audiences. Furthermore, by ensuring clarity in the laws governing exemptions, local governments can better leverage these tools to promote tourism effectively.

Summary

House Bill 2137 focuses on technical amendments regarding the allowable exemptions for tourism promotion area assessments. The bill aims to provide clarity and possibly expand the scope of certain exemptions that can be applied to tourism-related assessments. The intent is to streamline processes and improve the effectiveness of tourism promotions in various regions by ensuring that local areas have a clear understanding of the exemptions available to them. This legislation recognizes the critical role that tourism plays in the economic development of certain areas and seeks to support that by providing more accessible tools for local governments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2137 appears to be largely positive among stakeholders who recognize the potential economic benefits of increased tourism funding. Supporters argue that the technical changes will enhance local communities' ability to attract visitors, therefore improving overall economic performance. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the scope of exemptions and whether certain adjustments may favor specific regions over others, leading to an uneven playing field in tourism promotion across the state.

Contention

Points of contention mainly center around the fairness and distribution of the exemptions outlined in the bill. Critics voice concerns that if certain areas receive more favorable exemptions, it could lead to an imbalance in tourism funding that disadvantages less popular or economically robust regions. The debate emphasizes the need for equity in tourism promotion while aiming to maximize economic benefits across diverse local economies.

Companion Bills

WA SB6202

Crossfiled Concerning technical changes to allowable exemptions for tourism promotion area assessments.

Previously Filed As

WA SB6202

Concerning technical changes to allowable exemptions for tourism promotion area assessments.

WA SB5492

Concerning sustainable state tourism promotion.

WA HB1437

Concerning sustainable state tourism promotion.

WA LB582

Change provisions under the Mechanical Amusement Device Tax Act relating to the amount of tax imposed on cash devices and how such collected taxes are remitted and change the revenue submitted to the Nebraska Tourism Commission Promotional Cash Fund

WA SJM8006

Concerning the limited license legal technician program.

WA LB486

Change the prohibition on use of state funds for advertising or promotional materials

WA SB5358

Concerning career and technical education in sixth grade.

WA HB1650

Concerning the addition of airport capital projects as an allowable use of local real estate excise tax revenues.

WA HB1258

Increasing tourism to Washington state through enhancement of the statewide tourism marketing account and changing necessary match requirements.

WA SB5651

Revised for 2nd Substitute: Concerning exemptions from garnishment.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.