Levy Formula

The Washington State Constitution (Article VII, Para. 2) provides a formula for passage of excess levies. The number of voters who voted in the taxing district at the last preceding November election becomes the basis of the formula.

Excess levies require that 60% of 40% of those who voted in the last preceding November election be favorable to the passage of the levy. In addition, this "yes" vote must represent at least 60% of the votes cast in the election. For example:

If 100,000 votes were cast in the last November election, 60% of 40% of this number, or 24,000 "yes" votes, would be required for passage of an excess levy. There must be a minimum of 60% approval for the levy to pass.