Bill > SB5259

This bill creates a sales and use tax exemption for bait purchased specifically for commercial fishing, providing tax relief for businesses with fishery licenses that catch food fish or shellfish for commercial purposes. The bill defines "bait" as any food or substance used to attract fish or commercially harvested species, and explicitly excludes fishing charter companies. To qualify for the exemption, businesses must obtain an exemption certificate from the state department by submitting an application, and when making a purchase, provide the seller with this certificate, which the seller must keep on file. The tax exemption will apply from the date the application is received and is set to expire on January 1, 2037. The legislature intends this exemption to improve industry competitiveness and support the commercial fishing sector by providing equitable tax treatment comparable to other industries like commercial farming. The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee will be responsible for reviewing the fiscal impact and effectiveness of this tax preference, with the ability to access relevant data from state agencies like the Department of Fish and Wildlife to conduct their analysis.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5259&Year=2025&Initiative=false