Tag Archives: Property Tax

Muzzall pushes back on Democrat property tax proposals, warns of harm to renters and first-time buyers

After a news conference by stakeholders and lawmakers earlier today, Sen. Ron Muzzall is echoing concerns about proposals moving through the Legislature that would eliminate or expand caps on property tax growth. He warns it could increase housing costs and affect vulnerable populations across the state

Senate Bill 5798 received a hearing in the Senate budget committee on March 31, where more than 43,680 individuals signed in to oppose the bill—a record-setting level of public feedback in the history of the Washington State Legislature.

“At a time when families across Washington are already managing higher costs of living, we need to be especially cautious about any policy that could further burden those who are struggling,” said Muzzall. “This proposal could have real consequences for renters, people on fixed incomes and those working toward homeownership.”

Muzzall noted that if the proposed policy had been in place over the past decade, it would have added more than $9,000 to the property tax bill of a $500,000 home. For this year alone, average homeowners could see an increase of approximately $2,000.

Under current law—established by voter-approved Initiative 747—annual property tax growth is limited to 1% unless voters approve a larger increase. SB 5798 would remove that restriction, instead tying it to inflation and population growth. Estimates suggest the change could cost taxpayers $6 billion over 12 years.

“This isn’t just about homeowners,” Muzzall said. “When property taxes rise, landlords may pass those costs on to tenants, which could increase rents at a time when affordable housing is already difficult to find.”

He added that seniors on fixed incomes may face difficult decisions if their housing costs increase, and younger families trying to enter the housing market could be priced out.

“We all share the goal of improving housing access and affordability, but I worry that this approach could make those challenges more difficult for the very people we’re trying to help,” he concluded.

Senate Budget Passage is a Missed Opportunity for Washingtonians says Muzzall

Sen. Ron Muzzall, R-10th Legislative District, issued the following statement today following the Senate’s passage of the Democratic budget proposal:

“Today’s passage of the Senate Democratic budget is a profoundly disappointing moment for Washington. This budget represents a missed opportunity to restructure state spending and make our government more efficient and responsive to the needs of its citizens. Instead of addressing the root causes of our fiscal challenges, the majority chose to double down on unsustainable spending and tax increases that will hurt working families, small businesses, and our most vulnerable communities.

The inclusion of a significant property tax increase in this budget is especially troubling. By allowing property tax growth to be tied to both inflation and population, without any cap, the majority is driving homeownership further out of reach for countless Washingtonians. This policy doesn’t just impact homeowners; it also drives up rents for families already struggling to make ends meet. In a state that prides itself on opportunity and innovation, we should be creating pathways to homeownership and affordability, not erecting barriers.

Instead of exploring meaningful reforms to control costs and improve efficiency, this budget leans on higher taxes to cover growing expenditures. Washingtonians deserve better. They deserve a government that prioritizes accountability, transparency, and effective use of resources. It is possible to meet the needs of our state without burdening families and small businesses with additional taxes.

While I am saddened by this missed opportunity, I remain committed to advocating for a more responsible approach to budgeting. We must focus on solutions that strengthen our economy, provide stability for families, and ensure that Washington remains a place where everyone has the chance to thrive.”