The Washington State Senate today passed legislation providing local governments with options to preserve affordable housing in their communities by authorizing the use of local tax exemptions for certain properties.

Upon passage of SB 6239, co-sponsor of the bill Sen. David Frockt, D-Seattle, who represents Kenmore from the 46th District, released the following statement:

“As the affordable housing crisis continues to impact our communities, the legislature must find ways to work with local governments to ease the accelerating consequences of rising rents. I am relieved that the Senate took steps today to expand options for cities and towns to address these problems with significant support from both sides of the aisle.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House to get this legislation on the Governor’s desk.”