OLYMPIA — Sen. June Robinson (D-Everett), Senate Ways & Means chair, issued the statement below in response to the release of Gov. Jay Inslee’s budget proposal Tuesday:
“I appreciate Gov. Inslee’s thoughtful and future-focused budget proposal, which highlights both the progress we’ve made as a state and the challenges that lie ahead. His plan recognizes the growing costs of inflation, increasing caseloads for safety net programs, and the need to maintain critical investments in areas like housing, education, behavioral health, and public safety.
“While budget writers will need to navigate a difficult fiscal environment this year, we have an opportunity to build a responsible, sustainable budget that reflects our shared values. It’s clear we must balance the need to protect essential services with smart, strategic choices that help working families, strengthen our economy, and address growing income inequality.
“The governor’s proposal serves as a strong starting point for our work in the Senate. We will carefully consider all options to close the shortfall, minimize disruptions to essential services, and ensure every Washingtonian — regardless of zip code or income — has access to opportunity, stability, and a better future. I’m confident that, through collaboration and focus, we will deliver a budget that puts people first and prepares us for the challenges of tomorrow.”
