|
 |
|
|
|
AWB Urges Lawmakers to Limit Session to Restoring I-747 Protections |
|
|
|
Written On: November 28, 2007 |
|
|
|
OLYMPIA – The Association of Washington Business supports the special session to reinstate the 1-percent property tax limit established by the voters through Initiative 747. After the state Supreme Court invalidated I-747, swift action by the Legislature to reinstate the protections provided by the initiative is appropriate and necessary.
In a letter to Gov. Chris Gregoire and legislative leaders delivered November 27, AWB President Don Brunell said, "AWB supports reinstating the Initiative 747 one percent cap and eliminating excess banked capacity created by the Court's decision. The limit has been in place for some time, has worked reasonably well, and has the support of the general public. It also meets the constitutional requirement for uniformity."
The one-day special session, however, should focus solely on restoring I-747. Any property tax proposals unrelated to the Court’s action should be introduced and considered during the regular legislation session, when there is time to evaluate them thoughtfully.
Business and residential taxpayers have several years of experience with the provisions of I-747. Additional changes in the property tax system should not be rushed through without careful examination.
"Washington's property tax system was built on sound principles," Brunell said. "In particular, we believe the state is well served by a policy of uniform assessment of property at 100 percent of fair market value, coupled with meaningful constitutional and statutory limits."
|
|
|
|
