Bill > HB1658

This bill modifies existing state law regarding a recording surcharge collected by county auditors, specifically dedicating one dollar of the five-dollar surcharge to supporting local historical preservation efforts. The bill establishes a new requirement for counties to create a "historic preservation and programs fund" and specifies how these funds can be used. Specifically, the funds can support operations and capital expenditures for history or heritage museums owned by municipalities or nonprofit organizations, and can support historic preservation activities authorized by other state laws. The bill provides a detailed definition of a "history or heritage museum" as a public facility primarily focused on preserving and presenting Washington state history and educating the public. The changes aim to ensure more structured and intentional funding for local historical preservation initiatives, providing clear guidelines on how the surcharge revenues can be utilized to support museums, historical document preservation, and related educational programs at the county level.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1658&Year=2025&Initiative=false