WEST SEATTLE LIGHT RAIL: Bill raising reimbursement limit passes State House

Last month we told you about Mode Music Studios (WSB sponsor) proprietor Erin Rubin and others speaking in support of State House Bill 1733, which would increase the allowable amount of reimbursement if you’re going to be displaced by a project like Sound Transit light rail. State House Rep. Brianna Thomas‘s office sends word that HB 1733 passed out of the House on a unanimous vote Tuesday. Rep. Thomas and our area’s other state House Rep., Joe Fitzgibbon, are among the sponsors. Next, the bill goes to the State Senate. Here’s the latest version; it would raise the limit to $200,000, from the current $50,000, and allow future increases based on inflation. Rep. Thomas’s update summarizes it as follows:

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.

7 Replies to "WEST SEATTLE LIGHT RAIL: Bill raising reimbursement limit passes State House"

  • Jjm March 12, 2025 (4:21 pm)

    A step in the right direction!

  • JN March 12, 2025 (4:48 pm)

    Great news for some of our soon to be displaced businesses.
    Let the Senate follow suit.

  • Deb March 12, 2025 (7:17 pm)

    Terrific News!!! Do the right thing Senators!

  • Rob March 12, 2025 (7:34 pm)

    To bad they can’t stay . Make way for 7 billion . Hard to stop that 

    • AlanD March 12, 2025 (8:28 pm)

      Yes. Who is giving up hard earned dollars for this?

    • K March 13, 2025 (5:14 am)

      Building I-5 displaced thousands of businesses (in addition to tens of thousands of homes).  Roads for cars and buses will always displace far, far more people than grade-separated rapid transit.  It is unfortunate for the people that will be displaced for this project, but it will allow far more businesses and homes to remain far into the future, and that is worth every dollar to me.

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