Fromhold votes to reinstate I-747November 29, 2007
Olympia, WA – Annual
property tax increases will remain capped at one percent,
just as voters approved in 2001 under Initiative 747. Today, the
legislature in a special session passed a bill to make the one
percent cap law. Earlier this month, the state Supreme Court
overturned I-747, causing concern among many 49th district residents
about the potential corresponding effect on their property taxes.
Rep. Bill Fromhold (D - Vancouver) was one of 86 House members to vote in favor of reinstating the one percent cap. "Homeowners want some certainty where their property taxes are concerned," Fromhold said. "Since the Supreme Court's ruling, constituents have been contacting my office, fearful of double-digit increases. My vote today is meant to provide them certainty as we head into the holidays - at a time of record-high gas prices and volatility in the lending industry." The effect of the one percent cap on local governments' ability to provide basic services is also a concern to Fromhold. Looking at long-range solutions to address the issue is a priority for him as the legislature heads into the 2008 session. "I hope when we come back in January we take a serious look at the plight and responsibilities of local governments," Fromhold said. "They need our help." The bill to reinstate the one percent cap is House Bill 2416. # # # Rep. Bill Fromhold – 360.786.7924 Media staff: Jennifer Zahn Spieler – 360.786.7201 Print-quality photo: http://www.housedemocrats.wa.gov/members/fromhold/
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