HB 1095, sponsored by Rep. Amy Walen (D–Kirkland), is a helpful proposal that would allow cities wide use of a new sales tax credit for public safety needs.

The bill aims to incentivize cities and counties to increase employment of commissioned law enforcement officers via a one tenth of a percent local option sales tax that is a credit against the state sales tax. The revenue can be used for:

• At least 50% towards both the recruitment and retention of commissioned officers; and
• Remaining funds towards broader criminal justice efforts, including homelessness reduction and behavioral health programs.

Phase-in timeline:

• Counties and cities under 50,000 residents: Eligible by January 1, 2026.
• Populations between 50,000–175,000: Eligible by January 1, 2027.
• All counties and cities: Eligible by January 1, 2028.

Sign-in to support the bill

This bill is similar to another public safety sales tax bill, HB 5285, but HB 1095 is an AWC-preferred mechanism with wider use. We support the funding this bill would generate for some cities and will be testifying in support. Please take a moment to sign-in to support it for the legislative record.

We appreciate Rep. Walen bringing this bill forward. We are excited to see so many conversations and ideas taking place this session about investment in public safety and adding more police officers in our state.

Dates to remember

HB 1095 is scheduled for public hearing in the House Finance Committee on February 21 at 1:30 pm.