Budget Analysis
The Legislature adjourned “Sine Die” at 6:31 p.m. on Sunday, April 27, 2025 after passing the Operating, Capital and Transportation budgets as well as the supporting revenue bills. An audible sigh of relief was likely heard statewide.
Start Early Budget Summary. Start Early Washington has completed its initial review of the Operating and Capital budgets for early learning related items. This analysis is available on the Policy Resources section of the Start Early website and will be updated as we gather additional information.
The $77.98 billion biennial budget relies on nearly $9 billion in new revenue and almost $6 billion in reduced spending over four years to bridge the budget gap. The compromise budget does not include previously proposed state employee furloughs and does fund the proposed Collective Bargaining agreements.
The Washington State Standard ran a good summary of the operating budget agreement on Sunday evening.
The official Washington State Fiscal Information webpage contains detailed information for the final Operating and Capital budgets.
The Operating Budget passed by a 28-19 vote (with one member excused) in the Senate and a 52-45 vote (with one member excused) in the House. The Capital Budget passed unanimously in both chambers.
The budgets (including the Transportation Budget) move to Governor Ferguson for his consideration. Note the Governor does have “line-item” veto authority. In a statement, Governor Ferguson expressed appreciation for the Legislature concluding on time and stated he would be reviewing the budgets in detail prior to taking action.
DCYF Budget Webinar. DCYF will hold an End-of-Legislative Session Update Webinar on Wednesday, May 14, see additional details below and at the bottom of the Government Affairs page.
May 14, 2025
End-of-Legislative Session Update Webinar
9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Join Here
Access Code: 811 0874 6597
Passcode: YU@81d
Call in Number: 253 215 8782
Passcode: 910002
