The following shared information is provided by RBAW (Recreational Boating Association of Washington) as an urgent message to boaters, RV owners, and aircraft owners.

The Washington State Senate recently released its updated Transportation Revenue Package, which includes a new 10% “luxury tax” on the purchase of recreational watercraft valued over $500,000 as stipulated in Senate Bill 5801. This Bill also targets high-value RVs and airplanes, and vehicles over $100,000. The Bill also calls for a surcharge equal to 10% of the selling price on electric bicycles.

 The Bill has already passed the Senate and is now in the House.

How Boaters Will Be Affected:

  • The first $500,000 of a boat’s purchase price is taxed at the standard state and local sales tax rate (no change).
  • Every dollar above $500,000 would face an additional 10% surcharge – on top of the regular sales tax.
  • This also applies to lease requirements with periodic payments if the fair market value of the vessel is in excess of $500,000 at the inception of the lease.

To learn more, see SB 5801 Senate Bill Report HERE under “Available Documents.”

RBAW Messaging to Boaters:

  • The proposed tax will dramatically impact boat sales, with ripple effects in reduced services, fewer jobs, and higher costs.
  • Luxury taxes have consistently failed to generate projected revenue and have ultimately been repealed.
  • Boaters already pay an annual value-based excise tax on watercraft, making this a double hit to boat owners.

What You Can Do:

  • Click HERE to find your state legislators by Zip Code. This tool will show both your Senator and Representative, with contact information and a link to send an email.
  • Your voice matters, send an email to your Senator and Representative and tell your story.

What to Say (feel free to personalize):

As your constituent and a recreational boater, I’m asking you to oppose the proposed 10% luxury tax on boats over $500,000. This tax would hurt every boater and damage the entire marine industry in our state which provides for many middle class and family wage jobs that the industry depends on. Recreational boaters are also the only ones who ALREADY pay an annual excise tax based on our boat’s value, and this proposed tax is a double hit to responsible boat owners. Please help protect our boating industry and the thousands of Washingtonians who are part of it. Thank you.

RBAW, a non-profit, volunteer organization, ensures that your voice is heard in Olympia, protecting recreational boating and the boating industry. Your membership helps provide the needed resources to continue this vital work. If you have questions or can provide further assistance in this effort, please contact President Bob Wise at president@rbaw.org, or VP of Government Affairs Andrea Pierantozzi at leg@rbaw.org.