WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2071

Generating resources to combat domestic violence by imposing an excise tax on owners of online dating applications.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lauren Davis and 1 co-sponsor

Washington bill taxes online dating app owners to fund domestic violence prevention services and survivor support programs statewide.

First reading, referred to Finance.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2071

Legislative bill overview

HB 2071 proposes imposing an excise tax on owners of online dating applications in Washington state, with revenues designated to fund domestic violence prevention and support services. The bill specifically targets dating app companies as a revenue source for addressing intimate partner violence and related services.

Why is this important

Domestic violence is a significant public health and safety issue, and dedicated funding streams can expand access to shelters, counseling, and legal services for survivors. However, this approach raises questions about whether dating apps are an appropriate or effective target for taxation and whether such a tax might be passed to consumers or affect the viability of these services in the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Causal connection: Critics may question whether dating apps bear sufficient responsibility for domestic violence to justify targeted taxation, versus general revenue sources
  • Tax incidence: Unclear whether the tax burden falls on app owners, users through increased fees, or both—potentially affecting access for lower-income users
  • Constitutional concerns: Potential legal challenges regarding selective excise taxes on specific industries and commerce clause issues
  • Policy effectiveness: Whether earmarking revenue to one service area is the most efficient way to address domestic violence compared to broader funding mechanisms

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

Sign in to ask a question.