Tacoma: FAQs on Proposed 0.1% Criminal Justice Sales & Use Tax
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~ As Tacoma faces a projected budget shortfall and the need to modernize its public safety system, the City Council is considering a dedicated tax to address these challenges. The proposed 0.1% Criminal Justice Sales & Use Tax, authorized by the state under HB 2015, would generate approximately $7-$7.5 million annually for public safety and criminal justice services.

According to city officials, this tax would cost residents 10 cents on a $100 purchase and slightly increase Tacoma's sales tax from 10.3% to 10.4%. However, essential items such as groceries and prescription drugs would be exempt from this tax in order to minimize the impact on low-income families.

The funds generated by this tax would be legally restricted to "criminal justice purposes" and could be used to prevent service cuts, maintain staffing levels for police and fire departments, and ensure rapid response times for 911 calls. Additionally, the funds could also be used to modernize response methods by funding behavioral health co-responders and diversion programs. This would ensure that mental health professionals are involved in responding to crisis calls, rather than just police officers.

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City officials also point out that Tacoma is not alone in implementing this type of tax. Other cities in Washington, such as Seattle, Renton, and King County have recently approved similar measures in order to close budget gaps and fund public safety initiatives. This trend is also seen statewide with cities like Spokane Valley taking similar steps to protect their communities.

If passed by the City Council on January 6th of next year, the tax could potentially go into effect as early as April 1st of that year following the state's required implementation schedule. Acting now on this proposal would prevent a gap in funding for the upcoming fiscal year and secure necessary safety services before any deficits force reductions.

In conclusion, city officials believe that for just pennies on a purchase, Tacoma can secure millions of dollars for public safety, protect 911 response times, and fund much-needed mental health services for the community. The first reading of the ordinance is scheduled for December 9th of this year, with a second reading projected to take place on January 6th of next year.

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