Bill > HB1060

This bill modifies the tax exemption for newspaper and digital content publishers in Washington state. It maintains the existing tax exemption for businesses primarily engaged in printing or publishing newspapers, including those publishing "eligible digital content" (defined as a monthly electronic publication with primarily attributed written content). The bill introduces new reporting requirements, mandating that businesses claiming this exemption file an annual tax performance report. If a business fails to file this report, they will be subject to a tax equal to 0.484% of their gross business income. Additionally, if the state department of revenue determines a business is not eligible for the exemption, they must repay the exempted taxes with interest, calculated from the date the exemption was initially taken. The bill defines "primarily" as more than 50% of a business's worldwide gross income coming from these activities. The new provisions will take effect on January 1, 2026, and expire on January 1, 2034, providing a structured approach to supporting newspaper and digital content publishers while ensuring accountability and proper tax reporting.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1060&Year=2025&Initiative=false