Dear friends and neighbors,
We’re in the final stretch of the 2024 legislative session! In this E-Newsletter, I’m breaking down the House budget. As we move forward, it’s essential to recognize the critical role that the Climate Commitment Act and the Capital Gains Tax play in funding vital initiatives for our state. Repealing these measures would not only jeopardize our commitment to combating climate change and investing in renewable energy but also undermine our ability to provide essential resources for childcare, education, and other critical services. Now more than ever, we must stand firm in safeguarding these funding sources to ensure a sustainable future and equitable opportunities for all Washingtonians.
Before we delve into the budget, I’d like to address an important issue: rent stabilization.
This year, my colleagues in the House and I passionately advocated for measures to bring stability to renters across our state. We’ve listened to countless stories from individuals in every county of Washington who are grappling with the challenge of rising rents, often facing the fear of being priced out of their homes. Rent, being one of the largest expenses for many, demands a level of security that renters won’t face sudden and unmanageable increases. Unfortunately, despite our efforts, the Senate chose not to advance rent stabilization this year. I invite you to watch this video, which captures the momentous occasion when it passed in the House.
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The House Operating Budget
I am pleased to present to you the highlights of the 2024 Supplemental House Operating Budget Proposal. As Chair of the House Finance Committee, I understand the critical importance of effective taxation and prudent budgeting in funding vital initiatives that benefit our communities.
Last year, we embarked on an ambitious journey with the passage of an unprecedented biennial budget, aimed at bolstering our investments in the wake of the pandemic. This supplemental budget, shaped by the voices of our communities and the priorities of House Democrats, continues our commitment to strengthening Washington’s families and providing them with the necessary tools to thrive and succeed.
Supporting Mental Health and Wellness
One of our foremost priorities is addressing behavioral health concerns, with a significant allocation of $270 million. This funding will enhance state inpatient behavioral health capacity, provide support for long-term civil commitments in the community, and ensure access to essential services for youth behavioral health needs.
Combatting the Opioid Crisis
Furthermore, our budget allocates $200 million to combat the fentanyl and opioid crisis, focusing on increased access to treatment, supporting families and children’s safety, and enhancing public health awareness and outreach, including support for Tribal communities.
Ensuring Access to Healthcare
Healthcare and public health remain paramount, with $785 million allocated to continue the Medicaid Transformation Project, expand health equity initiatives for uninsured adults, and improve provider rates and reimbursements, among other critical measures.
Empowering Our Children and Youth
I am particularly proud of our investment in children, youth, and families, with $150 million dedicated to increasing childcare slots and expanding eligibility, as well as boosting provider rates and reimbursements, ensuring that our youngest residents receive the care and support they deserve. It is important to note that a significant portion of this childcare funding is sourced from the capital gains tax, demonstrating our commitment to strategic and equitable fiscal policies.
Strengthening Education at All Levels
Education continues to be a top priority, with $260 million allocated to K-12 education, including provisions for special education, student transportation, and free student meals, among others. Additionally, $140 million is allocated to higher education and workforce development, supporting institutions like UW Hospital and expanding training opportunities for our workforce.
Caring for Our Most Vulnerable
Our budget also addresses long-term care and developmental disabilities, homelessness and housing, human services and poverty reduction, climate, clean energy, and natural resources, as well as public safety, legal aid, and corrections, with significant investments in each of these critical areas.
Building a Sustainable Future
Our budget prioritizes environmental initiatives with $310 million dedicated to clean energy, forest health, water quality, and salmon recovery efforts. We’re committed to protecting our natural resources for future generations.
Promoting Public Safety and Justice
Ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities, we’re investing $105 million in programs to support reentry, victims of crime, and gender-affirming approaches within our criminal justice system.
Watch my speech on final passage of the House operating budget here!
This budget represents our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive Washington. By investing in critical areas like healthcare, education, and mental health, we’re laying the groundwork for a brighter future for all. Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we work together to make a difference in the lives of every Washingtonian.
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Fur Fighters!
Did you know we have a Fur Fighters Caucus? I’m proud to lead this dedicated group of colleagues who share a passion for animal rights. And this session, our advocacy extends beyond fur – we’re championing the rights of octopuses! Be sure to watch my video from the wings highlighting one of our priority bills.
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Thanks to Our Pages!
In Olympia, I’m continually inspired by the dedication of young advocates and legislative pages! Pages play a vital role in our legislative process, learning about government firsthand while assisting legislators and staff. (Although we are full for this year, I hope students will apply next year!) Huge thanks to our pages for their hard work and to all youth advocates who’ve joined me this session!
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Thank you so much for reading!
Warmly,
Rep. April Berg