The bill amends RCW 36.100.040 to update the regulations surrounding public facilities districts, particularly regarding the imposition of excise taxes on lodging. Key changes include the adjustment of the minimum number of lodging units from "forty" to "40" and from "sixty" to "60" for certain exemptions. Additionally, the bill introduces a new definition for "community-initiated equitable development," which focuses on strategic investments aimed at addressing social and economic disparities. It also specifies that 50% of tax revenue collected must be distributed to the county for community-initiated equitable development and affordable housing programs.

Furthermore, the bill establishes an expiration date of July 1, 2035, for the new provisions, ensuring that the authority to impose additional excise taxes is time-limited. It outlines the conditions under which public facilities districts can impose these taxes, including the requirement for voter approval in certain cases and the stipulation that the tax proceeds must be used for specific public facility-related purposes. The bill also mandates that any payments made to cities from tax revenues must support community development initiatives, reinforcing the focus on equitable growth and housing affordability.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.100.040
Bill as Passed Legislature: 36.100.040
Session Law: 36.100.040