Just when we thought we might escape the 2023 legislative session without a significant tax increase for the masses, along came Senate Bill 5770, sponsored by 20 Senate Democrats.
Dropped just in time to avoid a constitutional requirement for it to be approved by a 2/3 vote of the Legislature, SB 5770 would TRIPLE the rate at which your state and local property taxes can grow.
Yes...TRIPLE.
It would increase the property tax growth factor for state and local governments from 1% to 3%. It also changes the definition of "inflation" so that property taxes can grow even faster.
By 2029, property taxes would be BILLIONS higher than under current law, and that would only grow over time. Where does that money come from?
You.
If you own property, you may have to sell if you can't afford the taxes anymore.
If you rent, you'll see your rents increase to cover the cost of the higher taxes. If the owner has to sell, it's likely you would have to move.
At 8.4%, inflation in Seattle is the third highest in the country. Why? Because of the cost of housing.
We have a housing crisis. The average wage in Washington doesn't qualify to buy the average home. Many families feel like they will never become homeowners. And more renters all the time are ending up living in RVs and homeless camps because their homes are sold or rents are increased so property owners can afford the taxes.
This makes it even more shocking that government greed is making an appearance right now in the form of higher property taxes. Democrats never have enough of your money.
"Now, the Democrats want to pass an 11th-hour bill that would triple the growth rate of both state and local property taxes. Many people around our state are asking for tax relief and this is the Democrats’ response?! Unbelievable. Taxpayers have had enough!” - Sen. Mark Schoesler, 9th Legislative District
If this tax passes, the big question you need to ask yourself is, "How much will be left of my paycheck?"
And the answer will be, "More than Democrats think you deserve to keep."
- Senate Republican Leadership
Tell Democrats how you feel about their plan to TRIPLE the rate at which your state and local property taxes can grow. Call or email your senator.
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