Car tab reduction passes Senate not likely to pass House

The Washington State Senate has passed legislation to lower the new car tab taxes approved by the voters who passed Sound Transit 3.

The measure was sponsored by Republican Sen. Steve O’Ban. It requires that Sound Transit use Kelley Blue Book value to calculate the taxes instead of the higher schedule based on the manufacturers suggested retail price.

Sound Transit says the measure would strip $6 billion from its revenues, endangering Sound Transit 3 projects.

Democratic lawmakers say it would have an unconstitutional impact on Sound Transit bonds.

Therefore it is not likely to pass in the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives.

Senate Republicans rejected a plan by Democratic Sen. Marko Liias. He said it would have reduced car tabs by a smaller amount but would have allowed Sound Transit projects to continue.

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Cox Media Group