OLYMPIA – Sen. Adrian Cortes (D-Battle Ground) co-sponsored four bills to provide substantial tax relief for working families. Senate Bills 5768 and 5771 expand the Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC), while Senate Bill 5770 and Senate Joint Resolution 8203 provide a property tax exemption for primary residences.
“It’s more important than ever that we support lower- and middle-income renters and homeowners struggling to make ends meet,” Cortes said. “I’m proud to co-sponsor these important bills that offer real tax relief for working families in the 18th Legislative District and across Washington state. These bills deliver one of the most significant cost-of-living reductions in a generation, helping most Washingtonians keep more money in their pockets.”
SB 5768, sponsored by Sen. Rebecca Saldaña, expands access to WFTC by lowering the minimum age requirement to 18 years old. This bill ensures more low-income workers — including young adults just starting out — can receive financial relief through this program.
SB 5771, sponsored by Sen. June Robinson, increases the WFTC to reflect the economic impact of property taxes incorporated into rental amounts charged to residential tenants. This bill provides a $300 refund to people who are eligible for the tax credit and were renters for at least 183 days during the year they are claiming the credit for.
SB 5770, sponsored by Robinson, creates a primary residence property tax exemption. This bill lowers taxes for people who own one home where they reside, raise their families, age in place, and more. This distinction between property that is someone’s primary residence and other property provides equity in the state’s tax code.
SJR 8203, also sponsored by Robinson, amends the state constitution to allow for a primary residence property tax exemption. Just like SB 5770, this resolution shifts more of the tax burden from those who own their houses onto people who own mansions or second homes, and large commercial enterprises.
“Washington has one of the most regressive tax systems in the country, meaning low-income workers pay a higher share of their income in taxes than wealthier individuals. The WFTC and primary residence property tax exemption help offset that imbalance,” Cortes said.
