This 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 amounts received for these activities are exempt from certain taxes, provided that the person claiming the exemption files a complete annual tax performance report with the department under RCW 82.32.534. Additionally, if a person fails to meet this reporting requirement, they will be subject to a tax equal to their gross income multiplied by a rate of 0.484 percent. The bill also establishes that if the department determines a person is not eligible for the exemption, the taxes previously exempted will become due, along with interest retroactive to the date the exemption was taken.

The bill introduces definitions for "eligible digital content" and outlines the conditions under which the exemption applies, including the frequency of publication and the nature of the content. It also 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. Overall, the bill aims to support the newspaper and digital content publishing industries while ensuring compliance with tax reporting requirements.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 82.04.759