Evolution of the 2012 supplemental budget

Here is the evolution of the 2012 supplemental budget . . . READ MORE

Budget balance sheet has lawmakers rooting for Spain and increased oil supply

Just when I thought it was safe to go back in the water I saw the balance sheet for the compromise budget . . . READ MORE

201 days later we have a budget and structural reforms

Though it took an early morning 2nd Special Session, lawmakers finally approved a revised 2011-13 budget but more importantly adopted several significant structural reforms. 201 days ago the Governor held a press conference calling on lawmakers to balance the state's budget. At midnight this morning she called the 3rd Special Session to achieve this goal and the 2nd Special Session of 2012. Rather than let lawmakers take a break, however, the Governor had lawmakers pull an all-nighter to work through the remaining compromise bills. Here are some of her comments about calling the early morning 2nd Special Session . . . READ MORE

Without accounting change, House budget results in negative $168 million ending fund balance

Based on the details of the House budget released today hopes of a grand budget compromise being within reached are quickly evaporating. Here is a quick cheat sheet on the last two budget proposals . . . READ MORE

State balanced budget requirement proposed with exceptions

I hate to be the bearer of bad news but there is no balanced budget requirement in Washington State. The Governor is required to propose a balanced budget (RCW 43.88.030) and if at any time a cash deficit is projected the Governor is required to immediately implement across the board cuts (RCW 43.88.110), but the Legislature is not required to adopt a balanced budget . . . READ MORE