Long to-do list confronts Washington lawmakers, as session nears its end

Washington's 2025 legislative session is quickly coming to a close, with legislators confronting a daunting $16 billion budget shortfall. With only 13 days left, the urgency to reconcile differences over tax proposals and spending cuts is palpable. Democrats are advocating for significant tax increases, but Republican opposition presents a formidable hurdle. Among the pressing issues is a statewide rent cap bill, which has yet to gain consensus. Transportation funding is also in limbo, with the Senate and House proposing diverging budgets that include conflicting gas tax increases.

Governor Bob Ferguson has added to the uncertainty by rejecting a tax on the ultra-wealthy, complicating revenue plans further. As budget negotiators work to finalize spending cuts, the stakes are high for public services and education funding. The decisions made in the coming days will have lasting implications for Washington state residents.