WA HB2258

Cities and counties may impose a household excise tax up to $2.50 per dwelling unit per month for the first five years to fund animal control and shelter operations, maintenance, and capital needs

After the first year, governing authorities may annually increase the maximum rate by the lesser of 2% or the federal implicit price deflator for personal consumption expenditures

Cities may levy the tax within their jurisdiction while counties may levy it only in unincorporated areas; governing authorities may refer the tax to voters before imposing it

Referendum petitions to repeal the tax require signatures from 15% of registered voters within 30 days, with elections held within 120 days of filing

Effective date: January 1, 2027