The bill amends existing laws regarding business licensing fees in Washington State, specifically RCW 19.02.075 and RCW 19.02.085. It introduces provisions to waive handling and delinquency fees for eligible businesses under certain circumstances. Notably, the bill specifies that the handling fee for business license applications will not exceed $90 for new applications, $10 for renewals, and $19 for other purposes. Additionally, it allows for a waiver of the handling fee for businesses unable to renew due to emergencies or disasters, provided they renew within 36 months and meet specific criteria. The bill also mandates that if the business license account exceeds $1,000,000, the department must reduce handling fees accordingly.

Furthermore, the bill outlines conditions under which the business license delinquency fee can be waived. The delinquency fee, which is capped at $150 or 50% of a base fee, can be waived if the department acknowledges an error on its part, if the licensee has a history of timely renewals, or if the business qualifies for a single handling fee waiver due to the provisions in RCW 19.02.075(1)(c). The act is designed to support businesses facing challenges and applies only to licenses renewed after its effective date.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 19.02.075, 19.02.085