This bill aims to enhance funding for veterans' assistance and services for individuals with developmental disabilities or mental health needs by allowing counties to impose local property tax levies. Specifically, it amends existing laws to establish a tax rate of 2.5 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value for community services related to developmental disabilities and mental health, with the provision that this levy will be deducted from the state property tax amount owed by the county. Additionally, the bill modifies the tax rate for the veterans' assistance fund to a minimum of 1.8 cents and a maximum of 27 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, also ensuring that this levy is deducted from the state tax obligations.

The bill includes several key insertions, such as the requirement for the levies to be deducted from state tax obligations at no cost to the counties, and it establishes specific uses for the funds collected, including veterans' assistance programs and the lawful disposition of remains for indigent veterans. The legislation 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: 71.20.110, 73.08.080