 
In The News:
 Senate Democrats’ controversial bill allowing local governments in Washington to exceed the 1% cap on annual property tax increases won’t be acted on this session, its author said Friday.
The legislation sought to repeal the voter-backed limit and give cities and counties the ability to levy hikes up to 3%. But it ran into fierce opposition from Republicans and residents across the state who warned the measure would drive up living and housing costs.
“It’s not going to advance this year,” said Sen. Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, author of Senate Bill 5770, which was sponsored by 18 of the caucus’ 29 members.
Supporters need to work on better explaining the needs of cities and counties in providing services like public safety, and helping the public better understand the mechanics of property taxes, according to Pedersen.
...Republican senators credited pressure from their caucus and residents for persuading Democrats to abandon the bill.
“This is unexpected and happy news,” said Sen. Keith Wagoner, R-Sedro-Woolley. “We felt the other side would get the message if we and the public pressed hard enough.”
...Republicans, who had been girding for a fierce floor debate for days, expect they may still have one in the future.
“I’m glad they had second thoughts this session. Watch for the next session because I don’t think they’ve given up,” Wagoner said.
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