The Seattle City Council has approved a 0.1 percent public safety sales tax by a vote of 8–1, a measure expected to generate about $39 million in 2026. The new tax, authorized under HB 2015, will fund public safety initiatives, including behavioral health and crisis response programs.
Mayor Bruce Harrell’s proposed 2026 budget includes $9.5 million from the tax to expand the city’s Community Assisted Response and Engagement Department (CARE), which sends behavioral health experts to crisis calls instead of police. Supporters, including Council Chair Sara Nelson, said the investment will strengthen treatment services and improve neighborhood safety.
Councilmember Maritza Rivera cast the lone vote against the measure, citing concerns over affordability and the regressive nature of sales taxes, which disproportionately affect low-income residents. Seattle’s sales tax rate, now at 10.35 percent, is among the highest in the country.
Despite the additional revenue, Seattle still faces a projected $140 million general fund deficit starting in 2027. The business and occupation tax restructuring, set for a November vote, is also expected to influence future city revenue.
The new public safety tax awaits Mayor Harrell’s signature to take effect in time to capture full 2026 revenues.
