issue area reports | budget and taxation
HB 1793 wireless device tax
Failed / AWB Opposed sponsor : Rep . Mia Gregerson , D-Seatac
AWB opposed this proposal to add a $ 2 tax on the sales of a smart wireless device costing over $ 250 . The proceeds would go into a new learning device and technology account to fund digital equity grants . This bill is a regressive tax that would disproportionately hurt those it intends to help , increasing costs for Washingtonians and businesses struggling with high inflation . Fortunately , the bill failed to move forward and died in the House Finance Committee .
SB 5269 clean manufacturing
Passed / AWB Supported sponsor : Sen . Sharon Shewmake , D-Ferndale
AWB supported this bill , which includes a study of how the transition to net-zero emissions by 2050 will impact the state ’ s manufacturing sector . The bill also directs the state Department of Commerce to develop an independent assessment strategy of new and emerging industries to meet emissions targets and strengthen the state ’ s manufacturing base . The bill passed the Senate and was amended in the House . The House passed the final bill 95-2 and the Senate 28-14 .
SB 5770 property tax levy limit
Failed / AWB Opposed sponsor : Sen . Jamie Pedersen , D-Seattle
This bill sought to scrap the voter-approved 1 % percent cap on property tax growth by cities , counties , special districts in the state and replace it with a 3 % limit . The additional revenue was intended to support education of students with disabilities . This legislation would have raised the cost of property tax bills , hitting employers and residents across Washington . AWB continues to oppose efforts by lawmakers to raise taxes that would make housing more expensive . The bill failed to receive a hearing .
Emily Wittman , president and CEO of the Aerospace Futures Alliance , testifies in support of a sustainable aviation fuel measure , Senate Bill 5447 , during a hearing before the Senate Environment , Energy & Technology . The bill passed the Legislature and was signed into law . special edition 2023 33