This bill amends RCW 84.36.037 to remove the one-acre limit on the property tax exemption for nonprofit public assembly halls and meeting places. The new language specifies that the exempt property shall not exceed 29 acres if it has been primarily used for annual community celebration events for at least 10 years. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the property must be used exclusively for public gatherings and must be available to all organizations or individuals, with the owner allowed to impose necessary conditions for safekeeping and promoting the exemption's purposes.

Furthermore, the bill includes new sections stating that RCW 82.32.805 and 82.32.808 do not apply to this act and specifies that the act will apply to taxes levied for collection in 2026 and thereafter. The department of revenue is instructed to narrowly construe the exemption, ensuring that any income generated from the property is used for maintenance, operation, or capital improvements, thereby preserving the tax-exempt status.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 84.36.037
Substitute Bill: 84.36.037