We are back at work in Olympia today. It was certainly not my plan to still be here but, unfortunately, our budget has still not been approved.
Governor Inslee made it pretty clear in his remarks this week why we’re at this impasse: Both sides need to be willing to compromise and to focus on one goal – agreeing on a budget that meets our constitutional obligation to fund our kids’ education.
This session provides us with an incredible opportunity to invest in our children and schools, have a budget that protects the vulnerable and is supportive of an economy in recovery. I know that working together we can do great things for our state and I remain hopeful that we will move forward.
You can click below to watch Gov. Inslee’s speech. He addresses the issue of needing to pass a budget to avoid shutting down state government on July 1.
For more insights into the unprecedented situation facing the legislature:
Seattle Times Editorial – Time to compromise on Washington state budget
Kirkland Reporter Guest Opinion – Legislators need to compromise as government shutdown looms
HDC Advance blog – The reality of budget negotiations
Thank you for reading this update on what’s currently happening in Olympia. As always, I welcome your thoughts and ideas.