The bill amends RCW 82.04.759 to clarify tax exemptions for individuals and entities engaged in printing newspapers and publishing eligible digital content. It specifies that amounts received for these activities are exempt from certain taxes, provided that the person claiming the exemption files a complete annual tax performance report with the department under RCW 82.32.534. Additionally, if a person fails to meet this reporting requirement, they will be subject to a tax equal to their gross income from these activities multiplied by a rate of 0.484 percent. The bill also outlines that if the department determines a person is not eligible for the exemption, the taxes previously exempted will become due, along with interest retroactive to the date the exemption was taken.

Furthermore, the bill defines "eligible digital content" and establishes criteria for its publication frequency and content requirements. It includes provisions for the expiration of certain sections of the act, with Section 1 expiring on January 1, 2026, and Section 2 taking effect on the same date, expiring on January 1, 2034. The bill aims to support the newspaper industry and digital content publishers by providing clear tax exemptions while ensuring compliance through reporting requirements.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 82.04.759
Bill as Passed Legislature: 82.04.759
Session Law: 82.04.759