House unanimously votes to remove Narrows Bridge sales tax

Measure would save toll payers $40 million

March 6, 2009

OLYMPIA – Legislators in the House have again voted to exempt the Tacoma Narrows Bridge project from having to pay sales tax, currently being deferred. Rep. Larry Seaquist, D-Gig Harbor, introduced the legislation receiving a unanimous vote off the House floor.

“This is a taxpayer fairness issue,” Seaquist said. “We’re being asked to pay tolls to build our own bridge—fine. But asking us also to kick in sales tax that will end up in the general budget is not right.”

Seaquist’s measure, House Bill 1463, would allow the new bridge’s construction sales tax, currently in deferral until 2013, to just be exempted instead. This would eliminate about $45 million from the tolls bridge users would have to pay on top of meeting the bond payment schedule.

The state shouldn’t stop with the Narrows Bridge, says Seaquist. He specifically cites the sales tax being collected on the ferry system’s diesel fuel purchases.

Now the bill moves to the Senate. “I know Senator Kilmer will work once again to get this passed. I know it will be an uphill battle up there, but we’re fortunate we have Derek Kilmer once again leading the attempt to finally get this problem fixed.”

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For more information
State Rep. Larry Seaquist (360) 786-7802
Website and print-quality image: housedemocrats.wa.gov/members/seaquist

Staff contact - Andrew Dziedzic (360) 786-7218

Bill information
House Bill 1463: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=1463&year=2009