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Bill

SB 5252

Removing the acreage limit on the property tax exemption for nonprofit public assembly halls and meeting places.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Chapman and 2 co-sponsors

Eliminates acreage caps on property tax exemptions for nonprofit public assembly halls, potentially reducing local government tax revenue significantly.

Effective date 6/11/2026.
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Bill Summary · SB 5252

Legislative bill overview

SB 5252 removes the acreage limit on property tax exemptions for nonprofit public assembly halls and meeting places in Washington State. Currently, these facilities can only claim tax exemptions on properties up to a certain acreage; this bill would eliminate that restriction entirely.

Why is this important

Property tax exemptions represent foregone local government revenue, shifting tax burdens to other property owners. This change could significantly reduce tax revenue for counties and school districts, particularly in areas where nonprofits own large properties used for gatherings, worship, or community events.

Potential points of contention

  • Lost tax revenue: Counties and school districts may lose substantial property tax income, potentially affecting funding for schools, roads, and emergency services
  • Fairness concerns: Removing acreage limits could create disparities where large nonprofit properties pay no taxes while similarly-sized for-profit properties do, raising equity questions
  • Scope of exemption: "Public assembly halls and meeting places" could be interpreted broadly, potentially covering large tracts of land used minimally for actual public meetings
  • Geographic inequality: Rural areas with large nonprofit properties may experience disproportionate revenue loss compared to urban areas

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

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