The bill amends RCW 84.52.069 to update the regulations surrounding emergency medical service levies imposed by various taxing districts, including counties, cities, and fire protection districts. Key changes include the adjustment of the maximum allowable property tax levy from fifty cents to $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed property value, and the extension of the duration for which these levies can be imposed from ten years to 10 years. Additionally, the bill specifies that a majority of at least three-fifths of registered voters must approve any new levies, with particular provisions for how voter turnout affects the approval process. The bill also introduces a new referendum procedure for permanent levies, requiring a petition process and a timeline for signature collection.

Further amendments clarify the conditions under which multiple taxing districts can impose levies, particularly in cases where a county or regional fire protection service authority has already levied a tax. The bill establishes that if a county's levy is less than $0.50, other districts may levy the difference, and it sets forth requirements for accounting and transparency regarding the use of levy funds. New provisions allow fire protection districts partially covered by another district's levy to propose their own levies for non-overlaid areas, provided they meet specific criteria. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the process for emergency medical service funding while ensuring accountability and voter engagement.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 84.52.069