Thursday, March 28, 2024

Statement from State Rep. Mike Steele on Budget

Posted

Friends and neighbors,

I’m sending an update to inform you the legislature has passed, and the governor has signed, the 2017-19 operating budget ahead of the midnight deadline. We have averted a government shutdown.

Additionally, the operating budget also includes House Bill 2242, which fully funds K-12 education and meets all requirements under the McCleary Supreme Court ruling. Finally, all students in Washington, from Manson to Bellevue, will have equal access to a world-class education.

Transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility are all included in House Bill 2242. Teachers will receive pay raises, school districts will be subject to rigorous new reporting standards, and most property owners in the state will see their property taxes go down. Additionally, innovative achievement reforms to improve student outcomes will play an integral role in increasing student accountability and success.

At this moment, in the early morning hours of July 1, I’m currently on the House floor hoping to reappropriate funds to continue funding projects across Washington state.  I look forward to updating you as soon as more details become available.

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