This bill amends Washington state law to facilitate the formation and operation of fire protection districts by allowing cities and towns to establish these districts through a resolution that requires voter approval. The resolution must include a financing plan detailing property tax levies and potential benefit charges. Importantly, if a fire protection district is formed before July 1, 2026, the city or town is mandated to reduce its general fund property tax levy by the amount levied by the new fire protection district. The bill also updates public notice requirements for hearings on these resolutions to include publication on city websites or in local newspapers, and it clarifies the transfer of powers and responsibilities from city fire departments to the newly formed districts, ensuring the retention of employee rights and benefits.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions to protect tax levies for fire protection districts and regional fire protection service authorities from prorationing by establishing a maximum levy of twenty-five cents per thousand dollars of assessed value for certain authorized levies. It also sets expiration and effective dates for specific provisions, with Section 4 expiring on January 1, 2027, and Section 5 taking effect on the same date. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the financial stability and operational efficiency of fire protection services while ensuring transparency and safeguarding employee rights.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 52.02.160, 52.02.180, 84.55.092
Substitute bill: 52.02.160, 52.02.180, 84.55.092, 84.52.043