Key findings

1. SJR 8204 would weaken constitutional protections and make it easier to increase property taxes and add to public debt.

2. SJR 8204 would lower the standard for school officials to impose higher local property taxes from 60 percent to 55 percent.

3. The 60-percent protection has been part of the state constitution for 70 years. It protects the poor, the elderly, and working families.

4. The safeguard especially protects children and young adults from being burdened with heavy debt in the future.

5. The 60 percent protection does not prevent funding for new schools, it only discourages grand, “Taj Mahal” buildings sought by local officials.

6. Recently, 64 percent of bond levies met the 60-percent standard and passed, resulting in $1.9 billion in new school spending.

7. The state debt burden is already high. Taxpayers in Washington state are currently paying off $19.4 billion in school debt.

8. The 60-percent safeguard recognizes that many school officials want money today that others will have to pay back later.

Introduction

Lawmakers are considering a proposal, SJR 8204, to weaken constitutional protections, and make it easier to increase local property taxes and add to public debt. The measure is sponsored by Senator Emily Randall (D-Bremerton). 

If passed in each house of the legislature by a two-thirds vote, the measure referendum would go to voters on the November of 2021 ballot. If approved by a simple majority of voters, it would change the constitution and become law. The governor’s signature would not be required.
 

Read the full Legislative Memo here.