The proposal to allow small cities to use a portion of lodging taxes to address the impacts of tourism on infrastructure and criminal justice needs has not been scheduled for a hearing before the February 9 legislative deadline for bills to pass out of fiscal committees.

HB 2270 would have allowed small cities to use these funds for infrastructure and seasonal public safety needs.

Cities support bill allowing lodging tax use to address small city impacts from tourism

January 26, 2026

Small cities could use a portion of lodging taxes to address the impacts of tourism on infrastructure and criminal justice needs under a new bill.

HB 2270, sponsored by Rep. Adam Bernbaum (D–Port Angeles), would allow cities with less than 5,000 in population to use a portion of lodging taxes to address infrastructure and criminal justice needs created by tourism in smaller communities.

The legislative authority could adopt an ordinance allowing the alternative use of up to 15% of the previous year’s lodging tax revenues for:

• Infrastructure;
• Secondary roadways;
• Recreational facilities; and
• Tourist-season law enforcement.

Prior to adopting the ordinance for this alternative use, the city must provide notice, hold a public hearing, and allow substantial opportunities for input from the community and businesses.