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HJR 4209

Concerning a constitutional amendment providing for a residential real property exemption from property taxes levied for state purposes.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by April Berg and 1 co-sponsor

Would authorize a future residential real property tax exemption from state property taxes, defined by future legislation, via a constitutional amendment approved by voters.

First reading, referred to Finance.
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Bill Summary · HJR 4209

Washington HJR 4209 — Summary

Purpose and intent

  • HJR 4209 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to add a new section to Article VII. If approved by voters, it would authorize the Legislature to create a residential real property tax exemption from property taxes levied for state purposes, and to set any restrictions or conditions on granting that exemption through future legislation.

What the bill would do (key provisions)

  • Adds a new Article VII, section (unnumbered) that states:
    • (a) The Legislature may, by appropriate legislation, provide a residential real property exemption from property taxes levied for state purposes.
    • (b) The Legislature may place restrictions and conditions upon granting the residential real property exemption as it deems proper.
  • The amendment is to be submitted to the qualified voters at the next general election for approval or rejection.
  • The Secretary of State must publish notice of the proposed amendment at least four times during the four weeks preceding the election in every legal newspaper in the state.

Affected parties and scope

  • Applies to residential real property, specifically exemptions from property taxes that fund state purposes.
  • The exemption would be defined and implemented by future legislation (not by this joint resolution itself). Local property taxes would not be affected unless future actions extend coverage to them, which this measure does not specify.

Procedural and timeline notes

  • Status: First reading, referred to the Committee on Finance (introduced January 18, 2024).
  • Next steps if advanced: The measure would proceed through the legislative process and, if approved by the Legislature, would be placed on the ballot for voter approval at the next general election.
  • Voter ratification: The amendment requires approval by the voters to become part of the state Constitution.

Fiscal and policy considerations

  • As a constitutional amendment enabling an exemption, the actual tax relief and eligibility criteria would be determined by future legislation enacted after the amendment’s adoption.
  • Potential implications include reduced state property tax revenues (to the extent the exemption applies) and corresponding budget planning considerations for the state; any effects on state funding allocations and services would depend on how the exemption is implemented in law.
  • The Legislature could impose restrictions and conditions, allowing targeted exemptions (e.g., based on income, age, or property value) or broad exemptions, depending on future policy decisions.

Bottom line

HJR 4209 would authorize a future residential real property tax exemption from state-property taxes, contingent on voter approval of the constitutional amendment and subsequent legislative details outlining eligibility and restrictions. The measure is at the first-reading stage and would be decided by voters in the next general election if it advances.

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

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