| |
New law allows local option
of charging more for car tabs
Hinkle
opposes fee increases, believes bill subverts will of the people
Many Washington residents
can expect their car tab fees to go up due to a law recently signed by
Gov. Christine Gregoire that allows local authorities to increase the
amount without voter approval.
House Bill 1858 allows Transportation Benefit Districts to increase
car tab fees by up to $20 without voter approval. The measure also
applies to transportation impact fees on commercial and industrial
properties, but exempts residential properties.
Rep. Bill Hinkle,
R-Cle Elum, opposes the idea and believes the Democrat supermajorities
in the state House and Senate are subverting the will of the people.
“This is an example of a subtle and systemic tax increase on citizens –
in the form of higher car tab fees. This type of decision is a byproduct
of one-party control in Olympia that would rather increase, not lessen,
financial burdens on families,” said Hinkle. “I support local control,
but this bill does not allow for voter approval of fee increases. This
is a decision made at the state level that clearly subverts the will of
the people.”
Transportation Benefit Districts are taxing districts that fund
transportation improvements in counties, cities and or other local
areas. Revenue options for Transportation Benefit Districts include,
with voter approval, a 2 percent sales/use tax, local option car tab
fees up to $100, transportation impact fees, border area motor vehicle
fuel taxes (1 cent/gallon), bonds, and vehicle tolls.
House Bill 1858 was signed into law May 4.
# # #
For more information, contact:
John
Handy, Assistant Director: (360) 786-5758
|
|