**Article:**
Washington lawmakers are revisiting a proposal to impose higher taxes on short-term rental properties, such as those listed on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. The bill aims to generate additional revenue to fund affordable housing programs across the state. This legislative effort follows a similar proposal that did not pass during the previous session.
Supporters argue that the increased tax on short-term rentals could help address the state’s housing affordability crisis by providing new funding sources for housing initiatives. Opponents, however, raise concerns about the potential impact on property owners and the short-term rental market. The Legislature is expected to continue debating the bill in the coming weeks as they weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks.
**Why this matters:**
Affordable housing remains a critical issue in Washington, with many residents struggling to find reasonably priced homes. By targeting short-term rentals, the state hopes to tap into a growing market to support housing programs without increasing taxes on traditional homeowners. The outcome of this debate could influence housing policy and the short-term rental industry statewide.
Source: NewsData