Dear neighbors
My toughest job as a lawmaker is working on the state budgets. As chair of the House Capital Budget, it’s my honor to invest in the future of Washington state by building schools, housing, parks, colleges, and public infrastructure.
The two other state budgets—transportation and operating—are in tough spots this year.
I’ll tell you what’s happening, and why it matters to all our families in the 24th District.
Capital budget
The House capital budget includes $4.6 billion in new bond spending that will create jobs and build projects throughout the state.
Highlights include:
- $1 billion for public school construction,
- $723 million for affordable housing,
- $470 million for behavioral health facilities, and
- $92 million for early learning and child care facilities
- $388 million in reserves for unforeseen costs and events
Click here to read the nonpartisan bill report that explains the House capital budget.
Operating budget
The House proposes a $77.8 billion operating budget that’s balanced with a combination of smart cuts and revenue from the wealthiest residents.
For a full look at details on the House proposal, click here.
Transportation budget
Our state transportation budget is struggling for two big reasons.
First, the main source of revenue is the gas tax, which is in a long decline. Cars simply get better gas mileage today, and every year, more people switch to hybrids or fully electric cars.
Second, global inflation, tariffs, and chaos from the federal government has led to construction projects costing far more than expected. Which means we’re struggling to save money just to fund the most critical projects already underway.
The House transportation budget invests $15.2 billion to connect people to jobs, schools, and services.
There’s also good news on ferries, with the House passing the Mosquito Fleet Act to open up passenger ferry services, Gov. Bob Ferguson bringing two full-size ferries back into service, and funding in the House transportation budget to tackle problems with ferry staffing and recruiting.
Now that the House has passed the transportation budget, the next step is negotiations with the Senate.
Keep in touch
The last day of session is April 27, so things will happen quickly. I’ll try to keep you informed.
If you have a question, comment, or idea, please get in touch!
