In a victory for Washington’s family farms, Governor Bob Ferguson on Tuesday signed House Bill 1261 into law—a bipartisan effort led by Representative Sam Low (R-Lake Stevens) to protect farmers who engage in agritourism from losing their open space tax classification.
The new law ensures that activities such as weddings, pumpkin patches, hayrides, and farm tours—when they remain incidental and use less than 20% of the land—will no longer jeopardize a farm’s open space designation. This designation is a key tool for preserving farmland and easing the tax burden for working farms.
“This is a big win for our farmers, who work tirelessly every day to feed Washington’s families while fighting to preserve their land and livelihoods in an increasingly difficult environment,” said Rep. Low. “When a farm opens its gates to the public—whether for a wedding, a hayride, or something else that brings joy—it should never result in crippling tax bills that threaten the very existence of that farm. This law brings much-needed common sense and fairness to our system, allowing farmers to earn a little extra income to stay afloat without fear of government penalties that could push them out of business for good.”
Between 2017 and 2022, Washington lost nearly 3,717 farms—nearly twice the rate of the previous decade.
House Bill 1261 was born from conversations Low and Rep. April Berg (D-Mill Creek) had with farmers who were blindsided by retroactive tax bills after engaging in agritourism to generate supplemental income.
Berg, who cosponsored the bill, emphasized the importance of aligning state tax policy with the day-to-day realities of farming life: “Our state’s farmers are stewards of our land, our communities, and our economy. They deserve a tax system that reflects the realities they face—not one that penalizes them for trying to do the right thing. I’m proud to stand with Washington’s farming families and support thoughtful revenue solutions that keep them growing strong for generations to come.”
Low credited the success of the bill to the strong coalition that formed around it over the summer and throughout session.
“This was truly a team effort,” the 39th District lawmaker added. “I want to thank Representative Berg for partnering with me, as well as Snohomish County Councilmember Megan Dunn, who showed up at both House and Senate hearings to speak powerfully on behalf of our farming communities. I’m also deeply grateful to Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers, whose steady support and behind-the-scenes work helped keep this bill moving forward when it mattered most.”
Low also recognized farmers in the 39th District and across the state for their resilience and tireless advocacy in support of the measure.
“This bill belongs to the farmers,” he added. “They are not just the backbone of our economy; they are the heart of our communities. Their willingness to speak out, to stand up for their livelihoods, and to fight for their futures made this possible. This is their win, and it’s an honor to stand with them.”
House Bill 1261 will take effect in late July.
Source: Washington State House Republicans
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
