Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1052

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  
Report Pass
2/16/23  
Refer
2/17/23  
Engrossed
3/7/23  
Refer
3/9/23  
Report Pass
3/22/23  
Refer
3/24/23  
Report Pass
4/3/23  
Refer
2/14/24  
Report Pass
2/16/24  
Refer
2/19/24  

Caption

Providing a property tax exemption for qualified real and personal property owned or used by a nonprofit entity in providing qualified housing funded in whole or part through a local real estate excise tax.

Impact

The potential impacts of HB 1052 on state laws include changes to property tax regulations, particularly concerning how exemptions are administered for nonprofit organizations. Given that nonprofits often play vital roles in providing affordable housing solutions, this bill could significantly bolster their activities by reducing property tax liabilities, thereby allowing more funds to be directed towards housing development and maintenance. Additionally, this bill may encourage more nonprofit entities to engage in housing projects, fostering the growth of community-based housing initiatives.

Summary

House Bill 1052 aims to provide a property tax exemption for qualified real and personal property owned or used by nonprofit entities that are involved in providing qualified housing. This initiative is designed to alleviate some financial burdens from nonprofits and enhance their ability to support housing initiatives, which are particularly crucial in areas with housing shortages. Under this bill, properties that meet certain criteria related to their use in housing efforts funded by local real estate excise taxes will be eligible for tax exemptions, helping to redirect resources towards community housing projects.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1052 appears to be largely positive among supporters, who view the bill as a necessary step to enhance support for nonprofits and housing efforts within the community. Advocates believe that reducing the financial burden of property taxes will incentivize nonprofits to expand their housing services. However, there may be some contention among critics who argue that such tax exemptions could affect local tax revenues, which are crucial for community services. This discussion reveals an underlying tension between providing support for housing and maintaining local governmental funding.

Contention

Notable points of contention in discussions about HB 1052 include concerns about the implications of broadening tax exemptions for nonprofits. Opponents may raise issues regarding the potential decrease in available funding for local governments if tax revenues are reduced due to these exemptions. There is also debate around what constitutes 'qualified housing' and the criteria that nonprofits must meet to qualify for these exemptions. These discussions highlight the balance that must be achieved between fostering nonprofit involvement in housing and ensuring that local governments retain adequate funding to support other community services.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.