Two weeks ago, we reported that our fiscal flexibility priority bill was to be heard in the House Local Government Committee. Last week, HB 1069 passed out of committee and was referred to the House Finance Committee.

HB 1069, sponsored by Rep. Gerry Pollet (D–Seattle), provides local governments with increased flexibility for existing revenue sources to better provide essential services for their communities. The House Local Government Committee passed HB 1069 out of committee with few amendments:

• Chemical dependency and mental health treatment services tax: in addition to current uses, revenue may be used for capital projects necessary to chemical dependency or mental health treatment programs or services.
• Lodging tax: removes original language that would have granted flexibility to use revenue for housing and rental assistance.
• Real Estate Excise Tax: provides that the greater of $100,000 or 35% of revenue can be used for maintenance, operation, and service support for existing capital projects.

AWC encourages cities to let your local legislators know you support these local flexibility options.

Dates to remember

HB 1069 is scheduled for public hearing in the House Finance Committee on January 25 at 10 am. It is scheduled for executive session in the House Finance Committee on January 28 at 8 am.