US EditionWhat’s on the agenda for Washington’s 2026 legislative session
Lawmakers face a $12 billion to $16 billion budget gap while prioritizing flood recovery, infrastructure repair, and new taxes including a proposed millionaire income tax.
- Monday, Washington state lawmakers convened a 60-day session to address urgent budget issues and recovery for residents and communities affected by December floods.
- Facing a multiyear deficit of 12 billion to 16 billion, Washington state legislature and Gov. Bob Ferguson confront a near-term gap of at least 2.3 billion through mid-2027.
- Transportation chairs pushed for bonds, gas taxes and redirecting Climate Commitment Act revenue amid budget plans including $1 billion for hybrid ferries and $150 million for maintenance.
- Gov. Bob Ferguson renewed support for the `millionaire tax` targeting incomes over $1 million, setting up legal challenges and political tests for Democratic legislators facing re-election.
- Labor groups urged a Working Families-first agenda as lawmakers consider a bipartisan study of nuclear energy and immigration-related bills, with legislative budget blueprints due in late February.
17 Articles
17 Articles
Washington legislative session begins amid $1.6 billion budget shortfall
WASHINGTON — The 60-day legislative session kicked off with Governor Bob Ferguson addressing an evolving budget shortfall. Ferguson explained the difficulty of making additional cuts after last year's significant reductions aimed at closing a $16 billion gap. This year, the…
Issaquah Reporter
What’s on the agenda for Washington’s 2026 legislative session
With a looming $12 billion to $16 billion budget shortfall hanging over the Washington state legislature, House and Senate leaders and Gov. Bob Ferguson presented differing proposals to address the issue.
WSLC announces 2026 legislative agenda
Agenda urges state legislators to act boldly to empower working people and protect working families OLYMPIA, WA (January 12, 2026) — The Washington state legislative session convenes today, beginning a 60-day sprint for organized labor to secure policies and budget terms that support working families. As this work begins, the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO […] The post WSLC announces 2026 legislative agenda appeared first on The STAND.
What’s at Stake for State Recreation Lands This Legislative Session
The next Washington state legislative session kicked off today, bringing new opportunities to advocate for our state-managed public lands. We preview the short 2026 session by sharing our top advocacy priorities and anticipated opportunities to take action for the state recreation areas you love to experience.
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