Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5315

Introduced
1/16/25  
Refer
1/16/25  
Report Pass
1/30/25  
Engrossed
2/12/25  
Refer
2/17/25  
Report Pass
4/7/25  
Refer
4/8/25  
Enrolled
4/23/25  
Chaptered
5/12/25  

Caption

Standardizing notification provisions relating to local tax rate changes and shared taxes administered by the department.

Impact

The effect of SB5315 on state laws involves changes to the existing frameworks around local tax notification. The bill would amend current statutes to require consistent procedures for informing local jurisdictions about tax rate changes, which could enhance compliance and reduce the administrative burden on local governments. Ultimately, the goal is to provide better collaboration between state administrations and local governments while ensuring that taxpayers are adequately informed and prepared for any fiscal changes.

Summary

SB5315 seeks to standardize the notification provisions related to local tax rate changes and the administration of shared taxes by the relevant department. The bill aims to streamline the process of notifying local entities about changes in tax rates, thereby ensuring that municipalities and counties receive timely information to implement necessary adjustments in their tax systems. By promoting a uniform approach, SB5315 intends to improve clarity and reduce confusion for local governments responsible for tax collection and reporting.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding SB5315 appears largely positive, with many stakeholders appreciating the potential for enhanced transparency and uniformity in tax administration. Supporters view the bill as a critical step towards reducing administrative discrepancies that can burden local authorities. However, some concerns were raised about whether the standardization might not fully address unique local tax issues, prompting calls for complementary measures to ensure local authorities retain necessary flexibility.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between state standardization and local authority autonomy. While many legislators and tax experts support the idea of uniform notification, others argue that local entities might have specific needs that a one-size-fits-all approach cannot adequately address. The debate highlights the tension between efficiency in state-level tax administration and the need for local governance to adapt to its unique circumstances.

Companion Bills

WA HB1126

Crossfiled Standardizing notification provisions relating to local tax rate changes and shared taxes administered by the department.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1254

Clarifying ambiguities in statutory provisions administered by the department of revenue relating to periodic adjustments.

WA SB5406

Clarifying ambiguities in statutory provisions administered by the department of revenue relating to periodic adjustments.

WA HB2044

Standardizing limitations on voter-approved property tax levies.

WA HB1742

Concerning nontax statutes administered by the department of revenue.

WA SB5301

Concerning housing programs administered by the department of commerce.

WA HB1709

Concerning housing programs administered by the department of commerce.

WA SB5316

Concerning background check and licensing fees for programs administered by the department of children, youth, and families.

WA HB1621

Concerning standardizing local government procurement rules among special purpose districts, first-class and second-class cities, and public utility districts.

WA SB5081

Concerning victim notification.

WA HB1753

Changing certain notice provisions in the derelict vessel removal program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.