The bill amends RCW 89.08.405 to establish new revenue limitations for conservation districts, allowing county legislative authorities to set rates and charges for these districts. Key changes include the maximum annual per acre rate being set at 10 cents, while the maximum annual per parcel rate is adjusted to $7.50, with higher limits for counties based on population size. Specifically, counties with populations over 480,000 can charge up to $15, and those over 1.5 million can charge up to $22.50. Additionally, starting March 1, 2029, the Department of Revenue is required to adjust these maximum rates every three years based on the consumer price index for the Seattle metropolitan area.

The bill also introduces provisions for public land to be subject to the same rates and charges as private land, and it establishes a process for landowners to appeal individual rates and charges. The appeal must be filed within 21 days after property taxes are due, and the decision of the conservation district's board of supervisors is final. Furthermore, the bill specifies that conservation district rates and charges will be collected alongside property taxes, with the funds used for district purposes. A petition signed by at least 20% of landowners can prevent the rates from being spread on tax rolls if filed before December 15 of the approval year.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 89.08.405
Substitute Bill: 89.08.405