Rep. Stephanie Barnard prefiles bill to expand property tax relief for disabled veterans

Rep. Stephanie Barnard has prefiled a bill for the upcoming 2025 legislative session to increase property tax breaks for disabled veterans in Washington State. House Bill 1106 seeks to lower the required disability ratings gradually, making more veterans eligible for property tax relief and providing greater financial assistance to those who have served.

“This bill is a testament to our commitment to honor and support the brave men and women who have served our state and nation,” said Barnard, R-Pasco. “By expanding property tax relief, we ensure that our disabled veterans receive the recognition and assistance they deserve while also maintaining fiscal responsibility for our local governments.”

HB 1106 would introduce significant property tax relief measures through a phased approach to disability rating requirements. Starting in 2026, veterans with a combined service-connected evaluation rating of 60% or higher will become eligible for property tax exemptions. This eligibility threshold will gradually decrease to 40% in 2027 and further to 20% or higher, including those with a total disability rating, beginning in 2028 and beyond. This phased reduction aims to extend financial assistance to a broader group of veterans over time.

“This approach allows us to increase benefits without overwhelming local government budgets,” added Barnard. “It ensures sustainable support for our veterans now and in the future.”

Under current statute, veterans must have a combined service-connected evaluation rating of 80% or higher to qualify for the senior property tax exemption. It’s important to note that this bill does not impact all property-owning veterans who meet the service-connected thresholds. Veterans will still have to meet the financial requirements of 70% of the county median household income, which remains challenging to achieve. This bill does not impact those financial limits.

After prefiling the bill, Barnard underscored her dedication to enhancing the quality of life for disabled veterans in Washington state and ensuring they receive the financial relief and recognition they deserve.

“My commitment is to stand with our veterans and ensure they have the resources necessary to succeed,” Barnard concluded. “This bill can help deliver the meaningful support deserved by those who have given so much for our nation’s freedom and security.”

The 2025 legislative session begins on Jan. 13 and is scheduled to run for 105 days.

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov