Small business bills advanced by House

Olympia – Looking to future growth in small businesses, Democratic lawmakers passed a package of bills that could keep Washington’s economy strong, while creating and retaining jobs.

Small businesses—20 or fewer workers earning $3 million or less a year—make up 93 percent of businesses in the state. Rep. Troy Kelley (D-University Place) held meetings last year with small business owners and heard a number of ideas on helping them succeed.

“When the economy starts to grow, a far greater proportion of jobs created are by small business—not large business,” Kelley said. “I’m looking forward to creating the right economic climate with this package of legislative bills, and am looking forward to hiring more people as a small business owner.”

Health care remains a major cost and barrier for small business owners and employees. House Bill 2560 allows more small businesses to be eligible for group health care plans, which are generally less expensive than individual plans. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Kevin Van De Wege (D-Sequim), will make it easier for small employers to purchase health coverage for their employers in the private market.

House Bill 3362 gives businesses a tax credit for buying energy efficient appliances. Sponsored by Rep. Troy Kelley (D-University Place).

House Bill 2380 helps small and medium-sized businesses cope with the cost of filing new paperwork under the streamlined sales tax process by giving them a corresponding B&O tax credit. Sponsored by Rep. Mark Ericks (D-Bothell).

House Bill 3126 fixes streamlined sales tax rules, so businesses won’t owe city business taxes when the businesses are not located in that city. Sponsored by Rep. Liz Loomis (D-Snohomish).

House Bill 2631 gives the Governor’s Office of Regulatory Assistance more authority to streamline regulations that affect small businesses. Sponsored by Rep. Kelli Linville (D-Bellingham).

House Bill 2925 improves the effectiveness and accountability of the Office of Minority- and Women-owned Business Enterprises. Sponsored by Rep. Phyllis Gutiérrez Kenney (D-Seattle).

House Bill 3115 makes sure small business incubators are qualified to help small businesses get started. Sponsored by Rep. Phyllis Gutiérrez Kenney (D-Seattle).

House Bill 2899 promotes adult literacy and job readiness, through better access to literacy services for native- and foreign-born adults that make up 12-15% of the potential workforce. Sponsored by Rep. Jeannie Darneille (D-Tacoma).

House Bill 3210 requires a ten-year workforce education plan. Sponsored by Rep. Fred Jarrett (D-Mercer Island).

House Bill 3120 directs a study of the green building industry and how the state can provide incentives to this booming sector. Sponsored by Rep. Christine Rolfes (D-Bainbridge Island).

“As the national economy heads into questionable territory, these bills can support independent businesses and encourage new industries that keep Washington strong,” said Rep. Kelli Linville (D-Bellingham), a sponsor on many of the bills and small business owner.

Small business start-ups tend to increase during employment downturns, making the House Democrats’ package timely.

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