Relief for businesses for streamlined sales passes House

Rep. Ericks’ bill could encourage a surge of entrepreneurship

February 4, 2008 

Olympia – A bill that would provide relief for businesses for streamlined sales was unanimously approved on the House floor on January 30. House Bill 2380 increases an income threshold from $500,000 to $3 million.

“Our hope is that we can really help small businesses that are struggling through these financially turbulent times,” said Rep. Mark Ericks (D – Bothell).  “I think the general consensus is positive and it shows that we really do support business.” 

Ericks, the bill’s primary sponsor, was also pleased with the potential that the passing of HB 2380 could encourage a surge of entrepreneurship.

HB 2380 received the support of many business groups and organizations such as the Association of Washington Business, the National Federation of Independent Business, and the Washington Retail Association.

“Washington is a very well-maintained and self-sufficient state,” said Ericks, “and if we offer this kind of leverage for existing businesses, I would hope that it could spawn others to follow suit and put their own contributions into the economy outside of pedestrian sales.”

HB 2380 is a response to SSB 5089, a bill from the 2007 session, which changed in-state mail orders for Washington businesses, by making the sales tax based on where the items were being shipped to instead of the tax based on where the retailer is stationed. 

Ericks’ bill has gone to the Senate for further consideration.