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Bill

Bill

SB 5289

Concerning allowing the use of impact fees for law enforcement.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Jeff Holy and 3 co-sponsors

Allows Washington local governments to fund law enforcement using impact fees on new development, providing police funding but potentially raising housing costs in growing areas.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 5289

Legislative bill overview

SB 5289 would allow local governments to use impact fees—charges typically levied on new development projects—to fund law enforcement services and facilities. Currently, impact fees are restricted to funding specific infrastructure necessitated by growth (roads, water systems, schools). This bill expands the eligible uses to include police departments and related law enforcement infrastructure.

Why is this important

Local governments face budget pressures and often struggle to fund adequate police services as communities grow. Expanding impact fee usage could provide a new revenue stream for law enforcement without raising general taxes. However, this represents a significant shift in how development costs are allocated, potentially affecting housing affordability and development patterns.

Potential points of contention

  • Housing affordability impact: Increased impact fees may raise development costs, which could be passed to homebuyers and renters, affecting housing accessibility in growing communities
  • Scope creep concerns: Expanding impact fees beyond infrastructure traditionally tied to growth (roads, utilities) may set precedent for funding other services, making impact fees less predictable for developers
  • Equitable burden: New residents/developments would bear costs for existing law enforcement needs, not just growth-related incremental demand, potentially treating them differently than existing residents

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

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