A new statewide survey reveals that Washington voters are firmly opposed to a proposed special excise tax of up to 4% on short-term rentals, intended to support affordable housing initiatives. Conducted in March 2025 by EMC Research, the survey polled 500 registered voters and found broad skepticism about both the tax’s fairness and its effectiveness.
🔹 Key Takeaways:
- Public Sentiment: A clear majority of voters oppose the tax—both before and after hearing arguments for and against it.
- Economic Impact: Voters believe the tax would likely be passed onto families, cut into the income of local hosts, and unfairly benefit hotels.
- Political Consequences: Half of the respondents say they would be less likely to support lawmakers who favor the tax.
The findings highlight widespread concern that this new tax would do more harm than good—hurting everyday Washingtonians while falling short of solving the housing crisis.