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Bill

SB 5591

Creating a sales and use tax remittance program for affordable housing.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Emily Alvarado and 4 co-sponsors

SB 5591 redirects a portion of Washington sales and use tax revenue to fund affordable housing development through a dedicated remittance program.

Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Housing at 10:30 AM.
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Bill Summary · SB 5591

Legislative bill overview

SB 5591 establishes a sales and use tax remittance program designed to generate dedicated funding for affordable housing initiatives in Washington State. The program would allow a portion of sales and use tax revenue to be redirected toward affordable housing projects rather than general state revenues. This represents a targeted fiscal mechanism to address housing affordability through tax policy rather than direct appropriations.

Why is this important

Washington State faces a significant affordable housing shortage, with costs rising faster than wages in many communities. By creating a dedicated revenue stream through tax remittance, the bill attempts to provide sustained, predictable funding for housing solutions without requiring annual legislative budget fights. This approach could fund construction, preservation, and affordability programs at scale if revenue targets are substantial.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact and trade-offs: Redirecting sales tax revenue reduces general fund resources for other state priorities (education, healthcare, infrastructure), forcing difficult budget choices or requiring offsetting revenue elsewhere
  • Program design and accountability: Questions about which housing projects qualify, how funds are administered, oversight mechanisms, and whether remittance levels adequately address the scale of the affordable housing crisis
  • Regressive tax concerns: Sales taxes are considered regressive (disproportionately burden lower-income households), so dedicating this revenue stream may face criticism as an inequitable funding source for housing assistance

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

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