OLYMPIA – Government projects, like transit construction, require real estate to proceed. Unfortunately, this sometimes means people or organizations must move. Historically, marginalized communities have shouldered the greatest burden of relocating, as happened to communities in the International District when I-5 was built in the 1960’s. House Bill 1733, sponsored by, Rep. Brianna Thomas, aims to mitigate the consequences of displacement by increasing reimbursement for displaced individuals, families, businesses, or other organizations. Under current law, no person or organization can be reimbursed more than $50,000. Rep. Thomas is working to increase that to $200,000.
“As a transit rider, I am glad we are getting light rail to our community,” said Thomas. “However, there are people and businesses that are going to be displaced. I am not sure if you can find a dollar amount to adequately compensate people for the hardship displacement causes, but I know it’s a lot more than $50,000. I am glad to bring more equity to this process and increase the likelihood that these businesses can stay in our communities.”
This bill increases financial assistance for people, businesses, farms, and nonprofits forced to relocate due to government projects. Under this bill, displaced individuals and organizations can receive payments to cover moving expenses, lost property, and the costs of finding a new location. The bill also allows eligible individuals to opt for a fixed payment instead of itemized reimbursements, providing more flexibility in how they manage their relocation.
“This moves us in the right direction,” continued Thomas. “But we must continue our work to shift the burden of displacement away from marginalized communities.”
House Bill 1733 passed off of the House floor with a vote of 96-0 and now heads to the Senate for consideration.