BAAY is now required to collect and remit sales tax (9% combined rate) on tuition for our programs that take place during the school year. This is a result of the Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5814 (ESSB 5814), passed by the state legislature in 2025.
Many arts organizations are advocating for revisions to the bill because of the adverse, and seemingly unintentional, impact it will have on the cultural sector. We at BAAY shares these concerns. We understand the additional strain this will put on families and, as a result, BAAY’s financial aid program.
*Update*
March 13, 2026 – Good news! Thanks to advocacy groups like Inspire WA and supporters who contacted their legislators, the bill was amended with the passage of ESSB 6113 and 6346. BAAY will receive exemptions for sales tax starting July 1st. Thank you to everyone who made their voices heard on this matter!