OLYMPIA, Wash. – UPDATE: 4:30 p.m.
Pasco, Wash. – House Bill 1106, spearheaded by Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco to allow more veterans to qualify for tax relief, passed the State House unanimously March 12.
Barnard emphasized the bipartisan support for the bill, stating, “Unanimous support shows that both parties recognize the importance of providing meaningful tax relief to those who served.”
The original bill proposed lowering the disability rating threshold to 20%, but an amendment keeps the minimum eligibility at 40% beyond 2027. The bill still lowers the threshold to 60% in 2026 and 40% in 2027.
“This remains a strong, bipartisan bill,” Barnard said, highlighting the expansion of eligibility and the sustainability of the program for the future.
The bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration.
ORIGINAL: March 13
A new bill introduced by a Tri-Cities lawmaker seeks to ease property tax burdens for disabled veterans by lowering the disability rating requirements for eligibility.
The bill, sponsored by Representative Stephanie Barnard of the 8th legislative district, would allow more veterans to qualify for property tax exemptions.
During Tuesday’s public hearing on HB 1106, Representative Barnard said the legislation acknowledges the tremendous sacrifices disabled veterans have made.
“They have a hard time working and going to work and the rating that they receive should not be an obstacle to them receiving support and help with their property taxes,” Rep. Barnard said.
Currently, veterans need a combined service-connected evaluation rating of 80 percent or higher.
The bill aims to gradually reduce this threshold, starting with 60 percent in 2026, 40 percent in 2027, and ultimately 20 percent by 2028.
For more information on the bill and its progress, visit the Washington State Legislature’s website.
