This bill amends RCW 82.42.090 to establish new guidelines for the distribution of aircraft fuel tax revenue. It mandates that all funds collected from the aircraft fuel excise tax must be transmitted to the state treasurer and credited to the aeronautics account. Additionally, it specifies that moneys collected from consumers or users of aircraft fuel through the use tax or retail sales tax must also be transmitted to the state treasurer and distributed accordingly. During the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027, an amount equivalent to a 0.5 percent tax will be credited to the aeronautics account, increasing to a one percent tax starting July 1, 2027. The remaining funds will be credited to the state general fund.

Furthermore, the bill requires the aviation division of the department of transportation to track and report on additional funds awarded for airport projects through the airport aid grant program from July 1, 2025, to 2031. The reports will include details about each funded airport project, including state grant amounts, federal matching funds, and local sponsor contributions. Additionally, starting June 30, 2027, the aviation division must report the estimated funds returned to the general fund as a result of these airport projects. The act is deemed necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety, and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 82.42.090