Bill > HB1260

This bill modifies the existing document recording fee law by adjusting how the $183 per recorded document surcharge is distributed and used. The surcharge remains applicable to most document recordings, with exemptions for specific documents like birth certificates, marriage licenses, and certain government or lien-related documents. The bill changes how counties and cities can allocate the collected funds, particularly for homeless housing programs. Counties can now use up to 10 percent for administrative costs, and at least 75 percent must be used for local homeless housing plans. If a city in the county chooses to operate its own homeless housing program, it will receive a proportional share of the funds based on its local real estate excise tax collection. The bill also specifies detailed guidelines for how the Department of Commerce must use the funds collected, including allocations for homelessness assistance grants, affordable housing support, and a landlord mitigation program. Funds are to be prioritized for serving extremely low-income households, providing rental assistance, supporting emergency shelters, and creating affordable housing units, with a particular focus on chronically homeless individuals and those with disabilities.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1260&Year=2025&Initiative=false