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Bill

SB 5692

Increasing the maximum per pupil limit for enrichment levy authority.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Hunt and 3 co-sponsors

SB 5692 raises the maximum per-pupil enrichment levy cap, allowing Washington school districts to collect more local property tax revenue for educational programs beyond state funding.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · SB 5692

Legislative bill overview

SB 5692 proposes to increase the maximum per-pupil spending limit that school districts in Washington can authorize through enrichment levies (local property tax measures). Enrichment levies allow districts to fund programs beyond state-funded basic education. The bill would give districts greater fiscal flexibility to support enhanced educational offerings at the local level.

Why is this important

School districts rely on enrichment levies to fund programs like advanced academics, arts, athletics, and special services that state funding doesn't fully cover. Increasing the per-pupil cap directly affects educational quality and program availability in communities, while also impacting local property tax burdens. This reflects ongoing tension between state funding obligations and local district needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax burden concerns: Higher levy authority limits could lead to increased local property taxes, affecting homeowners and renters differently across communities
  • Equity implications: Wealthier districts may more easily pass levies, potentially widening disparities between wealthy and low-income school communities
  • State funding responsibility: Critics may argue this shifts costs to local taxpayers rather than addressing insufficient state education funding

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

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