In 2015, the average household in the city of Snoqualmie may have to add $30 to its annual property tax bill in order to assume the tax burden of the Salish Lodge sitting atop Snoqualmie Falls. Is it because the Salish is struggling?

No, it is a thriving business. It is because it was purchased by the Muckleshoot Tribe in 2007. And while the Salish’s typical employment and revenue numbers will remain unchanged, the state Legislature is poised to give it a tax break under the guise of “economic development.” Or, is it simply welfare for the rich?

On March 7, a bi-partisan State Senate voted 37 to 12 to approve House Bill 1287, which will provide a tax exemption for property owned off of reservations by Washington State tribes.

But don’t panic. The tribes say that your local governments won’t lose much revenue. The tribes’ property tax burden will simply “shift” onto you and all other property tax payers (including those in Seattle due to the Muckleshoot-owned Four Seasons Hotel).

This legislation might make sense if it contained language and criteria that tied it to clear and compelling governing principles and goals such as addressing the needs of poor tribes, or providing reparations for historical wrongs, or creating jobs and stimulating the local economy.

Unfortunately, it is deeply flawed. HB 1287 does not distinguish between wealthy and poor tribes; the tax “shifts” apply to all tribes equally.