Property tax increase

House Bill 1334 would allow local governments to raise property taxes at a much faster rate than they can today. Currently, state law caps annual property tax increases at 1%—a limit put in place by voters through Initiative 747 in 2001. HB 1334 proposes to replace this cap with a formula tied to inflation and population growth, allowing tax increases of up to 3% per year.

Sound familiar? A similar proposal (Senate Bill 5570) failed last year due to strong public opposition, but lawmakers are trying to push it through once again.

House Republicans strongly oppose HB 1334, and here’s why:

It undermines the will of the voters: The 1% cap on property tax increases was established by voters through Initiative 747. Even when the state Supreme Court struck it down in 2007, the Legislature reinstated it due to overwhelming public support. HB 1334 ignores that history and the will of the voters. Before passing a major tax increase, voters deserve a say.

Democrats’ arguments don’t add up: Supporters claim that raising property taxes won’t significantly impact homeowners and renters. One Democratic lawmaker even called concerns over affordability “laughable.” But the reality is that higher property taxes make housing more expensive for everyone—whether you own or rent.

Wrong policy. Wrong time! Washington residents are already struggling with high food, fuel, and housing costs. Instead of forcing through another tax increase, lawmakers should focus on fiscal responsibility and respecting the will of the voters.