AWC’s TBD legislative priority, SB 5510, has successfully made its way out of the Senate—passing off the floor with overwhelming support (45 yeas and 4 nays). It is now in the House awaiting a committee hearing.

SB 5510 would modify the existing sales and use tax authority imposed by a transportation benefit district (TBD). Currently, voters can approve a 0.2% sales tax that can be renewed every ten years up to two times. The bill would allow for this voter approved tax to be voted on every ten years in perpetuity.

While TBDs have several funding options, more than 50 Washington cities rely on voter-approved sales and use taxes to fund transportation projects such as new road construction, public transit, and preservation and maintenance for existing roads and multimodal systems. Many cities are now in the second of their ten-year terms and are concerned about this important tool expiring while transportation needs continue to grow.

Many readers may know that the recently released transportation package also contemplates expanded authority for TBD sales tax; however, AWC still urges cities to reach out to your legislators and encourage the adoption of SB 5510, ensuring that cities can continue to use this very important tool.