Rep. Mike Steele praises 7.63 billion bipartisan capital budget as "Bright Spot" for Washington

Washington state lawmakers have proposed a $7. 63 billion bipartisan capital budget for 2025-27, designed to meet pressing infrastructure and community needs. House Bill 1216 reflects months of collaboration between Republican and Democratic legislators, focusing on housing, education, and behavioral health facilities. Key allocations include $723. 6 million for housing and homelessness initiatives, which feature $100 million for permanent supportive housing and $80 million for assistance to first-time low-income homebuyers.

The budget also sets aside $1. 1 billion for K-12 education, including substantial funding for school construction and modernization. Behavioral health facilities would benefit from $471. 7 million, aimed at enhancing services statewide. Rep.

Mike Steele praised the plan, calling it a "bright spot" amid budgetary pressures, and highlighted the collaborative spirit behind its development. With $2. 19 billion allocated for natural resources, the proposal also includes climate-related investments. House Bill 1216 is now awaiting a vote in the House, with the legislative session scheduled to conclude on April 27.