Money crunch puts kibosh on WA state lawmakers wish lists

Washington state lawmakers brace for a budget crisis as Sen. June Robinson announces a freeze on new spending requests for the upcoming session. The state faces a projected deficit due to a significant decline in tax revenues, despite billions in new taxes approved earlier this year. Robinson aims to set realistic expectations for legislators and interest groups, stating, “We don’t have money to pay for what is needed, let alone new spending. ” Rep.

Timm Ormsby, chair of the House Appropriations Committee, supports this message, warning of tight financial conditions. The operating budget, approved in May, allocated $77. 8 billion across various sectors, including education and healthcare, but now requires adjustments. Economic forecasts and federal cuts further complicate the state’s financial outlook. Ferguson's budget proposal, due in December, will address necessary cuts to balance the budget.

“It’s really bad,” Robinson stated, emphasizing the urgency for lawmakers to prepare for significant fiscal challenges.