WA Senate Republican proposal aims to close budget gap without new taxes

The Washington State Senate Republicans have introduced a budget proposal to address a multi-billion-dollar budget deficit while avoiding new taxes. Senator Chris Gildon, the Republican budget lead, emphasizes that the plan leverages surplus funds and proposes a $5,000 bonus for state workers instead of honoring previously negotiated pay raises. The budget outlines $75. 6 billion in spending over the next two years, representing a 5% increase from the current cycle. This strategy has drawn criticism from Democrats, including Governor Bob Ferguson, who stress the importance of maintaining collective bargaining agreements and argue that the proposal is "unsustainable.

" Gildon, however, defends the budget as a viable middle ground, asserting that the actual shortfall is closer to $6. 6 billion, rather than the $15 billion figure cited by the governor. The plan also aims to enhance funding for education and maintain social services without introducing new revenue streams. As budget discussions continue, a new revenue forecast set for March 18 could reshape the debate and influence the final budget outcome. This situation underscores the complexities of state budgeting in a politically divided legislature.