Bill > HB1985

This bill establishes a legal framework for creating and operating animal services districts in Washington state. These districts can be formed by cities or counties to provide services such as animal sheltering, medical care, adoption services, pet licensing, temporary emergency housing, and humane law enforcement. The creation of such a district requires either a citizen petition with signatures from at least 15% of registered voters or a resolution from local government bodies, followed by a voter approval election. If approved, the district is established as a municipal corporation with a board of commissioners, which can be elected or composed of existing city or county officials. The district can levy property taxes up to 25 cents per thousand dollars of assessed property value, issue bonds, and can be expanded or annexed by neighboring territories through a similar voter approval process. The bill also provides mechanisms for dissolving or withdrawing from an animal services district, ensuring flexibility for local communities. Importantly, the district can contract indebtedness, issue revenue bonds, and has specific financial and operational guidelines to ensure proper governance and financial management.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1985&Year=2025&Initiative=false