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Bill

HJR 4205

Abolishing excess enrichment and capital levies.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Corry and 3 co-sponsors

Constitutional amendment eliminating Washington's excess enrichment and capital levy property taxes, potentially reducing revenue for schools and local infrastructure absent alternative funding.

First reading, referred to Finance.
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Bill Summary · HJR 4205

Legislative bill overview

HJR 4205 is a proposed constitutional amendment in Washington state that would abolish "excess enrichment" and "capital levies"—two types of property taxes currently permitted under Washington law. The bill seeks to modify the state constitution to prohibit these specific tax mechanisms going forward.

Why is this important

Washington's constitution contains unusual provisions allowing certain property taxes beyond the standard levy limits, which have been used to fund specific public improvements and services. Eliminating these tools would restrict state and local government funding options and could impact revenue for schools, infrastructure, and other publicly funded services that currently rely on or could use these mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Removal of these tax authorities could reduce funding available to schools, counties, and municipalities without identifying alternative revenue sources
  • Local control: The amendment affects local governments' ability to pursue voter-approved funding mechanisms for community priorities like schools and infrastructure
  • Constitutional amendment threshold: As a constitutional amendment, this requires approval by two-thirds of both legislative chambers and then voter ratification—making it a significant policy change with high procedural barriers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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