Benton tries to force Senate vote on property tax relief measures

February 18, 2008

OLYMPIA…Sen. Don Benton, R-Vancouver, used a procedural motion today to try to force the Senate to vote on legislation providing a $100,000 homestead exemption for families before property taxes are calculated. 

“This is what the people want and this is what we ought to do,” Benton said in making his motion to force a vote on much-needed property tax relief. 

The two measures Benton moved to pull from committee were Senate Joint Resolution 8226 and Senate Bill 6565.  

SJR 8226 is a constitutional amendment and would require a vote of the people to expressly allow the Legislature to provide a homestead exemption on the state property tax levy of up to $100,000 of valuation on residential property. SB 6565 is the implementing legislation. 

“One of the things I hear about from my constituents on a regular basis is property taxes,” Benton said. “Property taxes are a very significant burden on families because they have been growing so rapidly.  These bills are important tax relief measures for all of Washington’s citizens.” 

Benton’s motion was defeated on a vote of 30-18, mostly along party lines, with one Democrat voting with the Republicans. 

- 30 - 

Additional Contact: Penny Drost (360) 786-7522 or drost.penny@leg.wa.gov