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 the exemption applies to amounts received for these activities, provided that the person has reported under the printing and publishing tax classification since January 1, 2008. New provisions require individuals claiming the exemption to file a complete annual tax performance report with the department, and those who fail to do so will be subject to a tax equal to their gross income multiplied by a rate of 0.484 percent. Additionally, if the department determines that a person is not eligible for the exemption, the previously granted exemption amount will become due, along with interest retroactive to the date the exemption was taken.

The bill also introduces definitions for "eligible digital content" and clarifies the conditions under which the exemption applies, including the frequency of publication and the nature of the content. The new legal language 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. These changes aim to provide clearer guidelines for tax exemptions related to newspaper and digital content publishing while ensuring compliance through reporting requirements.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 82.04.759