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Bill

HB 1997

Cutting statewide property tax revenues by 10 percent without creating a shift to other taxpayers.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Deb Manjarrez and 2 co-sponsors

HB 1997 cuts Washington property tax revenues by 10 percent while attempting to avoid shifting tax burden to other groups, requiring identification of replacement funding sources.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · HB 1997

Legislative bill overview

HB 1997 proposes reducing statewide property tax revenues by 10 percent while maintaining overall tax burden neutrality—meaning it aims to cut property taxes without shifting costs to other taxpayer groups or revenue sources. The bill has just been introduced in Washington and referred to the Finance Committee for consideration.

Why is this important

Property taxes are a primary funding source for schools, local governments, and public services in Washington. A 10 percent reduction would significantly impact municipal budgets and service delivery unless offset by alternative funding. The stated goal of avoiding "shift to other taxpayers" signals an attempt at revenue-neutral reform, though achieving this requires identifying equivalent funding sources or spending reductions.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism unclear: The bill's core promise—cutting 10% of property tax revenue without shifting burden elsewhere—requires substantial alternative funding that isn't yet specified, raising questions about feasibility
  • Service delivery impact: A 10% cut to property tax revenues could reduce school funding, emergency services, infrastructure maintenance, or other locally-funded programs unless offset by state appropriations
  • Equity concerns: Different property tax bases across districts mean uniform cuts could disproportionately affect lower-wealth communities that rely more heavily on local property tax revenue

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

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