Seaquist to lead property tax deferral bill through House

Nov. 28, 2007

OLYMPIA – One of two property tax relief bills scheduled for tomorrow’s special session will be prime-sponsored by Rep. Larry Seaquist (D-Gig Harbor). Seaquist’s bill would allow low- to middle-income homeowners to defer 50 percent of their property tax bills.

“So many Washington families are struggling with property taxes, and this deferral program is the kind of creative solution our state needs,” Seaquist said. “The people who are being taxed out of their homes need help now.”

Gov. Gregoire called for a one-day special legislative session after the state Supreme Court overturned the 1 percent cap on property tax increases. Seaquist applauded the move to reinstate the cap immediately, the first bill to be considered during the one-day session.

“In 2001 voters spoke clearly that they wanted in state law a percent limit to their property tax increases,” Seaquist said. “I have no doubt that their desire remains, or is even stronger today.”

The one-day session will take place when legislators were already scheduled to be in Olympia for committee work in advance of next year’s regular session.

As it’s currently written, Seaquist’s bill would allow homeowners making up to $57,000 in income to defer 50 percent of their property taxes. When the home is sold, the deferred taxes are paid back.

It’s estimated 7,500 homeowners could immediately benefit from this program.

“For working families paying part of the bill later allows a little more breathing room in their budgets for groceries, gas or health-care costs,” Seaquist said. “Since rising costs keep squeezing these families, we need this tool to take the pressure off.”

Seaquist said he is looking forward to talking with his fellow members about the deferral program and he hopes it will receive widespread approval.

“Continually expanding property tax bills are hitting Washington families in every corner of the state,” Seaquist said. “By deferring some of these taxes until the sale of the house, we can keep communities healthy by making sure families aren’t forced from their homes.”

“This should be the start of a serious, substantive discussion on property tax reform in our state that we can continue next session.”

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State Rep. Larry Seaquist (360) 786-7802

Website and print-quality image: www.housedemocrats.wa.gov/members/seaquist

Staff contact: Andrew Dziedzic (360) 786-7218

http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/Summary.aspx?bill=2417&year=2007

Radio and TV News Directors: To obtain broadcast-quality audio on this issue, or to arrange for TV or radio interviews, please contact Caucus Broadcast Coordinator Dan Frizzell at frizzell.dan@leg.wa.gov or 360.786.7208.