06/04/2026
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson is proposing to double the city’s transit sales tax from 0.15% to 0.30% as part of a 10-year measure that would renew and expand transit funding first approved by voters in 2020.
City officials say the measure would generate an average of about $138 million annually to fund additional bus service, transit access programs, streetcar operations, and other transportation improvements across Seattle. The current Seattle Transit Measure, which passed with roughly 80% support in 2020, is set to expire in March 2027.
The proposal would increase the transit portion of Seattle’s sales tax from 15 cents to 30 cents on a $100 taxable purchase. While supporters argue the funding is needed to improve transit reliability and expand service, opponents are likely to question whether Seattle residents can afford another tax increase amid ongoing concerns about the cost of living.
The proposal now goes to the Seattle City Council, which will take public comment and decide whether to place it on the ballot. If referred, voters would likely decide the measure in November, and it would not take effect unless approved.
