WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Legislature passes responsible, balanced budget

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April 11th, 2012

I am pleased to report that we passed a bi-partisan, balanced operating budget and capital budget/jobs package at 7:15 this morning after working through the night. These budgets will protect the vulnerable in our community, foster prosperity and invest in our future.

The final operating budget has no cuts to education and also protects important safety net programs like the Basic Health Plan, Sally’s House and the Housing and Essential Needs program.

The capital budget (often referred to as the Jobs Package) also delivers for our community and our state. The capital budget will generate over 20,000 jobs statewide and fund construction investments that are essential for the long-term prosperity of our community, including the Spokane Medical School and the Spokane Skills Center.

These budgets reflect the values of our community and are consistent with the feedback our office heard from constituents as we received thousands of e-mails and phone calls this session in support of maintaining funding for K-12 education, higher education, early learning and important safety net programs.  Thank you to everyone that provided input throughout the legislative process.