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# Washington Research Council: Washington Research Council

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## Posts
- [Liability account expected to be $345 million in deficit at end of the biennium; major increase in agency liability premiums requested](https://researchcouncil.org/liability-account-expected-to-be-345-million-in-deficit-at-end-of-the-biennium-major-increase-in-agency-liability-premiums-requested/): The Department of Enterprise Services (DES) is requesting $1.274 billion in 2027–29 and $939.5 million in 2029–31 in new spending from the self-insurance liability account (SILA).
- [HCA requests a 3.5% increase in appropriations, but the request doesn’t include an estimate of caseload changes since the current budget was adopted](https://researchcouncil.org/hca-requests-a-3-5-increase-in-appropriations-but-the-request-doesnt-include-an-estimate-of-caseload-changes-since-the-current-budget-was-adopted/): The Health Care Authority (HCA) is requesting $9.762 billion from the general fund–state (GFS) for 2027–29, which is $327.3 million (3.5%) higher than enacted appropriations for 2025–27. That change is comprised of a carry-forward level reduction of $21.8 million, a maintenance level increase of $200.9 million, and a policy level increase of $148.2 million. The new policy would increase appropriations in 2029–31 by $144.9 million
- [OSPI requests a 9.9% increase in K–12 funding for 2027–29](https://researchcouncil.org/ospi-requests-a-9-9-increase-in-k-12-funding-for-2027-29/): The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) is requesting $33.552 billion from the general fund–state (GFS) for 2027–29. That’s $3.027 billion (9.9%) higher than enacted 2025–27 appropriations. Of the increase, $926.9 million is the carry-forward change, $3.9 million is the maintenance level change, and $2.096 billion is proposed new policy. The new policy would cost $2.993 billion in 2029–31. (See the box below for more on this terminology.)
- [Budget outlook accuracy declined in 2025–27; growth factors will be adjusted](https://researchcouncil.org/budget-outlook-accuracy-declined-in-2025-27-growth-factors-will-be-adjusted/): On Friday, the Economic and Revenue Forecast Council (ERFC) met for the quarterly economic review, which will inform the upcoming revenue forecast. Additionally, the ERFC approved the growth factors that will be used to estimate the maintenance level (ML) for the second biennium (the outlook) of budgets adopted for the 2027–29 biennium.
- [Capital gains realizations by high earners in Washington decreased by more than in other states in 2023](https://researchcouncil.org/capital-gains-realizations-by-high-earners-in-washington-decreased-by-more-than-in-other-states-in-2023/): As I wrote on Friday, the taxpayer migration and Statistics of Income data sets from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) now incorporate the first few years of Washington’s capital gains tax. Although there is not yet much history, the data suggest that Washington residents may have moved or otherwise altered their behavior in response to the tax. Such responses could help us think about how the new income tax might affect taxpayer behavior.
- [The adjusted gross income of Washington millionaires declined in 2022 and 2023](https://researchcouncil.org/the-adjusted-gross-income-of-washington-millionaires-declined-in-2022-and-2023/): Yesterday I reviewed the economics literature on the question of whether wealthy people move in response to tax increases. It’s an important question because the revenue impact of the new income tax is uncertain. The extent to which people (and their incomes) move out of state will have implications for the state budget.
- [Potential behavioral responses to the income tax](https://researchcouncil.org/potential-behavioral-responses-to-the-income-tax/): With the income tax, Washington’s tax structure will become more volatile—especially because it is targeted at taxpayers with income over $1 million. The volatility makes it a difficult tax to forecast in general; for Washington, it will be especially hard to forecast in the beginning as it is a brand new tax. When it is difficult to forecast revenues, it is harder to craft sustainable budgets.
- [State budgets regularly appropriate more than the revenue forecast](https://researchcouncil.org/state-budgets-regularly-appropriate-more-than-the-revenue-forecast/): The root cause of the state budget shortfall is that in 2023–25, spending from funds subject to the outlook (NGFO) exceeded revenues by $4.842 billion. Budgets adopted for 2025–27 have not narrowed the gap. (Budgets have still balanced by using one-time funds, including reserves and transfers from other accounts.)
- [Fiscal notes and the income tax](https://researchcouncil.org/fiscal-notes-and-the-income-tax/): When estimating the fiscal impact of a policy proposal, a key component is the baseline. To what is the new policy being compared? What revenues are expected under existing law, and how would the proposal change that?
- [Workers’ compensation benefit costs are highest in Washington](https://researchcouncil.org/workers-compensation-benefit-costs-are-highest-in-washington/): Washington’s workers’ compensation benefit costs per covered worker remain the highest in the country, according to new data from the National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI). NASI’s August 2026 report covers data from 2023.
- [Washington’s state and local taxes and spending per capita ranked 13th highest among the states in 2024](https://researchcouncil.org/washingtons-state-and-local-taxes-and-spending-per-capita-ranked-13th-highest-among-the-states-in-2024/): The U.S. Census Bureau recently released state and local fiscal data for fiscal year 2024. This is the best source of data to use for comparisons of taxes and spending across states. To make those comparisons, we adjust the data by population and by personal income.
- [Challenges to public investment impact disclosures](https://researchcouncil.org/challenges-to-public-investment-impact-disclosures/): This fall, voters will consider I-645, which would repeal the income tax. Under a 2022 law, a public investment impact disclosure (PIID) will appear in the middle of the ballot title for I-645. The PIID has drawn two challenges.
- [Notes from the first meeting of the new committee on budget transparency and fiscal sustainability](https://researchcouncil.org/notes-from-the-first-meeting-of-the-new-committee-on-budget-transparency-and-fiscal-sustainability/): The Joint Legislative-Executive Committee on Budget Transparency and Fiscal Sustainability—created in the 2026 supplemental budget—met for the first time on Monday. The state has contracted with Pew to support the committee and provide research on budget practices in Washington and other states.
- [New report: 2026 Fiscal Management Performance Review](https://researchcouncil.org/new-report-2026-fiscal-management-performance-review/): The Washington Research Council considers budget sustainability to be a primary objective of state fiscal policy and key to our state’s fiscal health, the certainty of government services, and the competitiveness of Washington’s economy.
- [The state isn’t the only government in Washington facing increasing liability costs](https://researchcouncil.org/the-state-isnt-the-only-government-in-washington-facing-increasing-liability-costs/): As I’ve written, the growing deficit in the state’s self-insurance liability account (SILA) is a significant problem for the state budget. Indemnity payouts have increased dramatically in recent years. According to the Office of Financial Management, the ending balance in SILA was -$963.9 million for FY 2026. That’s the ninth year in a row the account has been negative at the end of the fiscal year.
- [What to make of the high capital gains tax collections for tax year 2025?](https://researchcouncil.org/what-to-make-of-the-high-capital-gains-tax-collections-for-tax-year-2025/): The Department of Revenue reported last month that capital gains tax collections for tax year 2025, which were collected in April and May 2026, totaled over $1.5 billion. (This is not the final number. All taxpayers must submit estimated payments in April, but taxpayers with filing extensions will finalize their payments in October 2026.)
- [Happy Fiscal New Year!](https://researchcouncil.org/happy-fiscal-new-year-11/): Today is the first day of fiscal year 2027, which is the second year of the 2025–27 biennium.
- [Slower economic activity reduces the revenue forecast, but the budget outlook improves given capital gains tax revenues](https://researchcouncil.org/slower-economic-activity-reduces-the-revenue-forecast-but-the-budget-outlook-improves-given-capital-gains-tax-revenues/): The Economic and Revenue Forecast Council (ERFC) estimates that revenues from funds subject to the outlook (NGFO) will total $76.237 billion in 2025–27, $82.164 billion in 2027–29, and $91.739 billion in 2029–31. The new revenue forecast incorporates all the legislative changes made during the 2026 session, including the adoption of the income tax.
- [Adopted pension contribution rates could save the state $325 million in 2027–29](https://researchcouncil.org/adopted-pension-contribution-rates-could-save-the-state-325-million-in-2027-29/): On Tuesday, the Pension Funding Council adopted 2027–29 employer contribution rates for state pension plans. The rates for 2027–29, as calculated by the Office of the State Actuary (OSA), are expected to decline compared to 2025–27.
- [State liability account shortfall grows](https://researchcouncil.org/state-liability-account-shortfall-grows/): Jim Brunner of the Seattle Times reports that the Office of Financial Management (OFM) has authorized the state’s self-insurance liability account (SILA) “to be in a temporary cash deficiency of up to $1.7 billion” in 2025–27.
- [New brief: With the Income Tax, Washington Adds a New, Volatile Layer of Taxation](https://researchcouncil.org/new-brief-with-the-income-tax-washington-adds-a-new-volatile-layer-of-taxation/): Under ESSB 6346, a 9.9% tax will be imposed on Washington income over $1 million beginning Jan. 1, 2028. All the provisions in the bill, including the tax rate and the $1 million standard deduction, are statutory, so they could be changed by the Legislature at any time.
- [Transportation revenue forecast is down again](https://researchcouncil.org/transportation-revenue-forecast-is-down-again/): According to the Transportation Economic and Revenue Forecast Council, transportation revenues are forecasted to total $8.705 billion in 2025–27, $10.617 billion in 2027–29, and $10.004 billion in 2029–31. Over the three-biennia period, this is $434.6 million less than expected in the February 2026 forecast.
- [Budget-related lawsuits piling up](https://researchcouncil.org/budget-related-lawsuits-piling-up/): The Washington State Standard reports that two assisted living organizations are suing the state over the way the Legislature reduced assisted living facility rates this year. The 2026 supplemental operating budget (Sec. 938) delays a scheduled rate rebase from FY 2027 to FY 2028. This is estimated to reduce spending from funds subject to the outlook by $21.2 million and from federal funds by another $24.2 million.
- [June caseload forecast reduces total caseload estimates for 2025–27](https://researchcouncil.org/june-caseload-forecast-reduces-total-caseload-estimates-for-2025-27/): On Thursday, the Caseload Forecast Council presented the June caseload forecast. The caseload forecast feeds into the estimated maintenance level (the cost of continuing current and planned services, adjusted for enrollment and inflation). There will be another caseload forecast in November, which will inform the governor’s proposed 2027–29 budget, and another in February 2027, which will inform the Legislature’s budget proposals. The June forecast is the first to include fiscal years 2028 and 2029.
- [Average annual wage is up 4.9%, triggering increases to various state benefits and the UI taxable wage base](https://researchcouncil.org/average-annual-wage-is-up-4-9-triggering-increases-to-various-state-benefits-and-the-ui-taxable-wage-base/): According to the Employment Security Department (ESD), the state average annual wage was $99,810 in 2025. That’s an increase of 4.9% over 2024. ESD reports that earnings increased by 4.7%, but covered employment declined by 0.2%.
- [OFM: “There will be significant budget shortfalls next biennium”](https://researchcouncil.org/ofm-there-will-be-significant-budget-shortfalls-next-biennium/): On Friday, the Office of Financial Management (OFM) sent budget instructions for 2027–29 to agencies. In the instructions, OFM director K.D. Chapman-See writes, “To be direct, there will be significant budget shortfalls next biennium in both operating and transportation budgets. I want to be clear that we do not yet know precisely how significant the shortfalls will be.”
- [Could the general fund–state end FY 2026 in the red?](https://researchcouncil.org/could-the-general-fund-state-end-fy-2026-in-the-red/): According to a monthly report released last week by the Office of the State Treasurer, the ending balance in the general fund–state (GFS) was -$3.419 billion at the end of March. Although ebbs and flows in the ending balance over the course of a year are normal, this is an unusually large shortfall.
- [State spending has increased substantially](https://researchcouncil.org/state-spending-has-increased-substantially/): Andrew Villeneuve of the Northwest Progressive Institute argues that Washington’s budget “has been shrinking.” His analysis is premised on the opinion that state government should grow as fast as the economy.
- [Who pays the advanced computing surcharge?](https://researchcouncil.org/who-pays-the-advanced-computing-surcharge/): The workforce education investment account (WEIA), created in 2019 and overhauled in 2020, is a fund subject to the outlook. Revenues may be used for “higher education programs, higher education operations, higher education compensation, state-funded student aid programs, and workforce development including career connected learning.” Certain business and occupation (B&O) tax dollars fund the WEIA.
- [The budget problem and the income tax](https://researchcouncil.org/the-budget-problem-and-the-income-tax/): In the Seattle Times today, Paul Roberts writes about the downward revisions to Washington’s credit outlook. The credit rating agencies cited the recent trend of spending outpacing revenues and the use of reserves to balance the budget.
- [New brief: State and Local Spending on Housing and Homelessness Has Increased Significantly](https://researchcouncil.org/new-brief-state-and-local-spending-on-housing-and-homelessness-has-increased-significantly/): Federal pandemic relief significantly boosted state spending on housing programs; as the federal funding has been drawn down, the state has added more funding from state sources. Similarly, even as overall spending by local governments has increased in recent years, the share dedicated to housing and homelessness services has increased.
- [The income tax won’t save the day for budget writers](https://researchcouncil.org/the-income-tax-wont-save-the-day-for-budget-writers/): Washington’s budget problem took root in 2023–25, when legislators appropriated substantially more than they expected to collect in revenues. Legislators have widened the gap between spending and revenues since then (despite substantial tax increases in 2025 and 2026). Will the new income tax fix the problem on its own?
- [Moody’s and Fitch revise Washington’s credit outlook down from stable to negative](https://researchcouncil.org/moodys-and-fitch-revise-washingtons-credit-outlook-down-from-stable-to-negative/): As the Seattle Times reported on Wednesday, Moody’s has changed its estimation of Washington’s credit outlook from stable to negative. Now, Fitch has followed suit. (S&P did not change its outlook this month, but in October, S&P moved Washington’s outlook down from positive to stable.) None of the three ratings agencies have reduced Washington’s credit rating at this point. (Washington’s bonds are rated Aaa by Moody’s, AA+ by S&P, and AA+ by Fitch.)
- [Officially, the 2026 supplemental budget balances in 2025–27; excluding unusual accounting assumptions, it does not](https://researchcouncil.org/officially-the-2026-supplemental-budget-balances-in-2025-27-excluding-unusual-accounting-assumptions-it-does-not/): Yesterday the Economic and Revenue Forecast Council (ERFC) approved the official outlook based on the 2026 supplemental operating budget. Officially, the budget left an unrestricted ending balance in funds subject to the outlook (NGFO) of $277 million in 2025–27 and $653 million in 2027–29.
- [The ERFC needs to standardize accounting assumptions if the budget outlook is to remain a useful gauge of Washington’s fiscal situation](https://researchcouncil.org/the-erfc-needs-to-standardize-accounting-assumptions-if-the-budget-outlook-is-to-remain-a-useful-gauge-of-washingtons-fiscal-situation/): Yesterday the Economic and Revenue Forecast Council (ERFC) met to provide guidance to the budget outlook workgroup in preparation for the official budget outlook. (The outlook will be adopted April 22.) The workgroup asked how to handle the accounting assumptions made in the conference committee’s estimated outlook and the intended 2027–29 appropriations and transfers.
- [As CCA revenues are expected to decline, Legislature reworks their distribution](https://researchcouncil.org/as-cca-revenues-are-expected-to-decline-legislature-reworks-their-distribution/): In the supplemental budgets, the Legislature increased 2025–27 appropriations from climate commitment act (CCA) accounts by $1.125 billion. Of that, $89.0 million was in the operating budget, $839.9 million was in the capital budget, and $196.5 million was in the transportation budget. (As I showed last month, $539.9 million of the capital CCA appropriations is effectively used to shift funding from the capital budget to the operating budget.) This brings the total amount spent or appropriated from CCA accounts to date to $4.667 billion.
- [State tax collections increased by 4.5% in FY 2025](https://researchcouncil.org/state-tax-collections-increased-by-4-5-in-fy-2025/): According to the Department of Revenue, state tax collections totaled $36.072 billion in fiscal year 2025. That was an increase of $1.565 billion (4.5%) compared to FY 2024 collections. (These are total state tax collections, not just revenues that are subject to the outlook.)
- [A timeline of the effective dates of major tax changes adopted in 2025 and 2026](https://researchcouncil.org/a-timeline-of-the-effective-dates-of-major-tax-changes-adopted-in-2025-and-2026/): The final tax package adopted last year was the largest tax increase in modern Washington history, going back to at least the early ‘90s. (Digital legislative and fiscal records are spotty before the 2000s.) As we discussed in a report last year, the package was rushed through at the end of the 2025 session, resulting in uncertainty and unintended consequences.
- [Income tax bill is by far the largest tax increase in the modern era](https://researchcouncil.org/income-tax-bill-is-by-far-the-largest-tax-increase-in-the-modern-era/): The multiple tax bills adopted by the Legislature last year collectively represented the largest tax increase going back over 30 years. For this analysis, I reviewed fiscal notes and legislative budget notes. Digital legislative and fiscal records are spotty prior to the 2000s, but some information is available online going back to the early 1990s. I compared the estimated fiscal impact of each tax bill based on the revenues expected at the time of enactment for the first biennium in which the tax was to be fully implemented. I adjusted the revenue impacts for inflation.
- [Washington’s fiscal situation prompts vetoes of just $800,000 from the operating budget](https://researchcouncil.org/washingtons-fiscal-situation-prompts-vetoes-of-just-800000-from-the-operating-budget/): The 2026 supplemental operating budget, as passed by the Legislature, increases appropriations from funds subject to the outlook (NGFO) by $2.348 billion. Revised NGFO appropriations for 2025–27 are $80.206 billion. As we’ve shown, appropriations for the biennium exceed revenues by $4.9 billion. The budget balanced due to the use of one-time funds and unusual accounting assumptions.
- [State will retain about 70% of annual income tax revenues](https://researchcouncil.org/state-will-retain-about-70-of-annual-income-tax-revenues/): Gov. Ferguson has signed ESSB 6346, which imposes an income tax. The bill additionally reduces some sales taxes and some business and occupation (B&O) taxes and expands eligibility for the Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC). (I wrote about the details of the final bill last week.)
- [New brief: Band-Aid Budget Redux](https://researchcouncil.org/new-brief-band-aid-budget-redux/): The Legislature has passed a supplemental operating budget that would increase 2025–27 appropriations from funds subject to the outlook (NGFO) by $2.348 billion (3.0%) compared to the enacted 2025–27 biennial budget. Revised 2025–27 appropriations would be $80.206 billion, which is 11.4% higher than actual 2023–25 spending.
- [New funding for wildfires and WEIA](https://researchcouncil.org/new-funding-for-wildfires-and-weia/): Interest on loans that are primarily secured by first mortgages or trust deeds on non-transient residential properties is currently subject to the service and other activities B&O tax rate if the loan originator is located in more than 10 states (RCW 82.04.29005). Otherwise, such interest is deducted from B&O tax.
- [Baseball stats and tax policy](https://researchcouncil.org/baseball-stats-and-tax-policy/): This Opening Day seems like a pertinent time to discuss tax policy, as the Legislature made a major tax change that could impact Washington’s tax structure’s Wins Above Replacement.
- [Supplemental transportation budget would use bonds to fund new highway preservation spending](https://researchcouncil.org/supplemental-transportation-budget-would-use-bonds-to-fund-new-highway-preservation-spending/): The 2025–27 biennial transportation budget balanced thanks to a revenue package that included an increase to the gas tax and increased sales taxes on transportation-related transactions. The tax and fee increases were expected to increase revenues by $1.885 billion through 2027–29. These funds were used mainly to shore up existing projects.
- [Key provisions in the income tax bill as passed by the Legislature](https://researchcouncil.org/key-provisions-in-the-income-tax-bill-as-passed-by-the-legislature/): The 2026 supplemental operating budget, as passed by the Legislature, assumes that the income tax bill (ESSB 6346) would reduce revenues to funds subject to the outlook (NGFO) by $55.4 million in 2025–27 and increase NGFO revenues by $2.292 billion in 2027–29. (The governor has not yet signed either the operating budget or the income tax bill.)
- [Legislature books substantial cost savings from changes to child care funding policies (and a brief history of funding for the Fair Start for Kids Act)](https://researchcouncil.org/legislature-books-substantial-cost-savings-from-changes-to-child-care-funding-policies-and-a-brief-history-of-funding-for-the-fair-start-for-kids-act/): The largest spending reduction in the 2026 supplemental operating budget is related to SHB 2689, which would make various changes to Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) and child care subsidy payment policy. (Neither SHB 2689 nor the supplemental operating budget have yet been signed by the governor.)
- [Revenue reduction from estate tax bill now estimated to be smaller than assumed in the budget](https://researchcouncil.org/revenue-reduction-from-estate-tax-bill-now-estimated-to-be-smaller-than-assumed-in-the-budget/): Several of the major tax bills passed by the Legislature this year were changed at the end of session in ways that could affect revenues. (For example: ESSB 6346, ESB 6228, EHB 2487, and ESB 6347.) For each of these bills, the supplemental operating budget assumes the revenues in the fiscal note available at the time. As revised fiscal notes become available for these bills, the ending balance for the operating budget could move up or down. (None of these bills have yet been signed by the governor.)
- [Operating budgets in 2023–25 and 2025–27 rely on fund transfers to an extent not seen since the Great Recession](https://researchcouncil.org/operating-budgets-in-2023-25-and-2025-27-rely-on-fund-transfers-to-an-extent-not-seen-since-the-great-recession/): The supplemental operating budget passed by the Legislature transfers a net of $1.663 billion from other accounts into the NGFO (funds subject to the outlook). Combined with transfers enacted in 2025, net NGFO transfers for 2025–27 total $2.292 billion.
- [Following the more than $1 billion shifted from the capital budget to the operating budget, tapping CCA and LEOFF 1 funds along the way](https://researchcouncil.org/following-the-more-than-1-billion-shifted-from-the-capital-budget-to-the-operating-budget-tapping-cca-and-leoff-1-funds-along-the-way/): According to the Department of Ecology’s December 2025 revenue forecast, revenues from the carbon emission allowance auctions are estimated to be $832.2 million higher (over the 2023–25, 2025–27, and 2027–29 period) than expected when the 2025–27 budgets were adopted last year. Based on the current revenue forecast, the state effectively has a one-time windfall that will not exist in the future.

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- [Mission and History](https://researchcouncil.org/about/mission-and-history/): The Washington Research Council examines how public policy issues will affect business, government, and the community. Research is based on facts from reliable data sources and informed by economic analysis with an appreciation of the power of free markets. Council reports are accurate, relevant, and timely.
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- [Columns and Op-Eds](https://researchcouncil.org/topics/past-presidents-columns/): Regulatory overlap, uncertain timelines threaten jobs in Washington state Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business, Feb. 23, 2017 Charter schools can benefit low-income students The Everett Herald, Nov. 28, 2015 Election more about pragmatism than partisanship The News Tribune, November 12, 2014 Being stuck in traffic costs us more than time The News Tribune, October 29, 2014 Communities, businesses need the other to thrive HeraldNet, October 15, 2014 Higher ed must disclose priorities HeraldNet, October 1, 2014 Court finesses crisis it created HeraldNet, September 17, 2014 Some ways to ease post-recession blues HeraldNet, September 3, 2014 Court gets it right in pension rulings HeraldNet, August 20, 2014 The jobs youth need are taken HeraldNet, August 6, 2014 Stop cities from setting state law HeraldNet, July 23, 2014 Class-size initiative is disingenuous HeraldNet, July 9, 2014 Court should let process work on school funding The News Tribune, June 25, 2014 Seattle charges over the cliff and hopes for a rosy future The News Tribune, June 11, 2014 Candidates vying for tough job in next session The News Tribune, May 14, 2014 Militancy hurts wage debate HeraldNet, April 30, 2014 Ill-advised education initiative would undercut progress The News Tribune, April 16, 2014 To stay innovative, we have to reward research The News Tribune, April 2, 2014 We need to look past distractions to education The News Tribune, March 19, 2014 Legislature needn't linger HeraldNet, March 5, 2014 UAW loss to hurt efforts HeraldNet, February 19, 2014 Opportunity to make policy shift HeraldNet, February 5, 2014 Forced wage hike harmful HeraldNet, January 22, 2014 Region must appeal to innovation generation The News Tribune, January 8, 2014 SeaTac's $15 minimum wage first step in wider debate The News Tribune, December 11, 2013 Gratitude helps keep perspective HeraldNet, November 27, 2013 Wary voters were cautious HeraldNet, November 13, 2013 State fixed mistake, now court shouldn't compound it The News Tribune, October 30, 2013 State's tax climate helps spread wealth HeraldNet, October 2, 2013 Revive idea to help fund education HeraldNet, September 18, 2013 Labor efforts drop ball as union membership dives The News Tribune, September 4, 2013 Dismal voter turnout alerts to larger risks HeraldNet, August 21, 2013 Economy needs more than talk from leaders The News Tribune, August 7, 2013 Sharp boost to minimum pay bad plan HeraldNet, July 24, 2013 Last-gasp suit over charters waste of time HeraldNet, July 10, 2013 Pleasing party base trumps compromise HeraldNet, June 26, 2013 The synergy behind the music project HeraldNet, May 29, 2013 State business rankings aren't bunk HeraldNet, May 15, 2013 In overtime, budget should be only goal HeraldNet, May 1, 2013 Education the common ground in competing state budgets The News Tribune, April 17, 2013 STEM focus right course for economy HeraldNet, April 3, 2013 View budget forecast with caution HeraldNet, March 20, 2013 Liberals now off-leash; will voters exert some control? HeraldNet, March 6, 2013 The jobs will come – but only if state makes the right moves The News Tribune, February 20, 2013 Family leave seems hopelessly stuck in the on-deck circle The News Tribune, February 6, 2013 Opportunity to achieve is real right now HeraldNet, January 23, 2013 How Inslee can meet modest hopes HeraldNet, January 9, 2013 New budget, with same old problems HeraldNet, December 26, 2012 Lawmakers should tread carefully with tax breaks The News Tribune, December 12, 2012 Dorn should lead, not fight charters HeraldNet, November 28, 2012 A very blue week for Republicans HeraldNet, November 14, 2012 The best tax system? That depends on how you measure success The News Tribune, October 17, 2012 It doesn’t take much these days to improve our optimism The News Tribune, October 3, 2012 Deeply rooted regulations choking biz HeraldNet, September 19, 2012 Tax limits alone do not a budget make HeraldNet, September 5, 2012 Pay hikes at WWU exactly the problem HeraldNet, July 11, 2012 Search for tax revenue will continue HeraldNet, April 18, 2012 State needs robust budget debate this fall HeraldNet, April 4, 2012 Taxes likely a hot topic in state elections HeraldNet, March 21, 2012 Legislative insurrection was needed HeraldNet, March 7, 2012
- [WRC in the News](https://researchcouncil.org/topics/wrc-in-the-news/): WA income tax isn’t the budget savior governor, lawmakers are expecting Seattle Times, May 5, 2026 How Ferguson, legislators tilted state toward negative outlook Seattle Times, April 26, 2026 Curious when all WA’s new taxes will kick in? There’s a calendar for that Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business, April 20, 2026 Democrats’ income tax plan must include overhaul of entire code Seattle Times, Feb. 8, 2026 State funding for Pierce Co. schools has soared. Why are some still struggling? The News Tribune, Feb. 5, 2026 Budget gimmick endorsed by Ferguson downplays WA’s huge lawsuit costs Seattle Times, May 24, 2025 5 takeaways from the final budget approved by the WA Legislature Seattle Times, April 29, 2025 Taxes and More Taxes in Washington State Wall Street Journal, April 13, 2025 Lawmakers must return WA to responsible fiscal footing Seattle Times, March 28, 2025 Gov. Ferguson, stand up to legislative overreach Seattle Times, March 28, 2025 Boosted by economic recovery, Washington Legislature budget deal raises taxes, boosts spending by more than $5 billion Seattle Times, April 25, 2021 Gas taxes, food delivery fees and more: Washington lawmakers eye 33 fees, taxes to pay for transportation Seattle Times, April 12, 2021 Gov. Inslee extends Washington’s COVID-19 restrictions on gatherings, restaurants, gyms Seattle Times, Dec. 8, 2020 Washington Research Council: Spending cuts weren’t the only budgetary response to the Great Recession Washington State Wire, Sept. 9, 2020 Johnson: Washington lawmakers shouldn’t put off dealing with state budget issues Wenatchee Valley Business World, Sept. 1, 2020 Editorial: State lawmakers shouldn’t wait to start budget work Everett Herald, Aug. 30, 2020 Longer lawmakers wait to address budget woes, the deeper the cuts Walla Walla Union-Bulletin, Aug. 26, 2020 It’s time for Gov. Inslee to call the state Legislature back for a special session The News Tribune, Aug. 22, 2020 Legislature must convene to address budget crisis Seattle Times, Aug. 14, 2020 Washington’s cash flow woes Lens, Aug. 11, 2020 Oregon Legislature to convene special session; Washington unlikely to do the same Washington State Wire, July 31, 2020 Ericksen calls Senate rail bill an assault on refineries Lynden Tribune, May 20, 2019 Inslee’s budget proposal includes income tax Lens, Dec. 13, 2018 Brunell: Caution amid good economic news The Columbian, Dec. 11, 2018 Vote no on I-1631: People would pay, not ‘Big Oil’ Seattle Times, Oct. 25, 2018 Closing the manufacturing skills gap Lens, Aug. 13, 2018 SVC manufacturing program seeks to address skilled worker shortage Skagit Valley Herald, July 31, 2018 The cost of a property tax cut Lens, March 8, 2018 Senate fight tables tax relief bill Lens, March 7, 2018 Time for a tax cut? Lens, Feb. 20, 2018 Study findings may discourage legislators’ budget tinkering Lens, Nov. 30, 2017 Lawmakers must consider costs of all taxes (op-ed by Don Brunell) Auburn Reporter, March 9, 2017 McCleary roundup: A week of analysis and more waiting The Seattle Times, March 3, 2017 Forecast: Inslee’s ’17-’19 Budget Would Take $11 Billion In New Taxes By 2021 Lens, Jan. 27, 2017 New Reports: Port Project Delays A Blow To Workers, And Washington Economy Lens, Oct. 28, 2016 I-1433: Is initiative best way to hike pay? Associated Press article in The Columbian, Oct. 22, 2016 Regional Housing Crisis Headed To Lawmakers Lens, Sept. 19, 2016 Washington Exporters Renew Push To Expand Global Trade, Via TPP Lens, Sept. 13, 2016 Fixing the Growth Management Act Lens, Aug. 16, 2016 Break Free event builds off local activism Skagit Valley Herald, May 15, 2016 State Wades into Uncharted Territory with Review Process Inside Sources, May 3, 2016 State biotech group names new CEO Seattle Times, April 21, 2016 Washington’s Life Science Trade Association Names New President/CEO Business Wire, April 21, 2016 Tesoro working toward starting $400 million project Skagit Valley Herald, March 15, 2016 Why are there so many biomed companies in Bothell? Bothell Reporter, March 9, 2016 Northeast states have harsh lessons to teach us (op-ed by Don Brunell) The Columbian, Jan. 26, 2016 Proposal would make charter schools accountable to voters The Everett Herald, Jan. 7, 2016 Unions press Boeing to keep jobs in Washington KIRO-7 TV, Nov. 9, 2015 Tim Eyman’s legal woes, K-12 funding loom over supermajority initiative Seattle Times, Oct. 17, 2015 Report: Washington 7th in math scores, 40th in high-school graduation Tacoma News Tribune, Oct. 7, 2015 Yahoo to Double Quincy Data Center Capacity Using Computing Coop Design Data Center Knowledge, Oct. 6, 2015 Do Wash. State Tax Breaks Level the Playing Field or Reward the Powerful? KPLU, March 24, 2015 Lt. Gov. Owen's tax ruling is helpful The Olympian (editorial), March 6, 2015 Minimum wage hikes hurt more than help, study says Capital Press, Feb. 24, 2015 Oil industry not buying Gov. Inslee's cap-and-trade plan Seattle Times, Feb. 23, 2015 New laws affecting business in 2015 Vancouver Business Journal, January 9, 2015 Unions want state to prove that Boeing tax breaks work The Everett Herald, December 13, 2014 With McCleary Mandate Looming, Will Wash. Class Size Initiative Help or Hurt? KPLU, October 30, 2014 Initiative 1351 would make class size smaller, but how? Columbian, October 13, 2014 Editorial: Initiative 1351 is the wrong tool to reduce class sizes Seattle Times, October 6, 2014 State's fiscal choices far from easy Spokesman-Review, August 24, 2014 The Boeing giveaway that wasn't Seattle Times, July 31, 2014 Deadline Looms For Voter Initiative To Make Wash. Class Sizes Smaller KPLU, June 30, 2014 Life Sciences Research in Washington Delivers Economic Punch Xconomy, April 23, 2014 Cities Advance Their Fight Against Rising Inequality The New York Times, April 7, 2014 Another Year, Another Attack on Oil Industry -- Effort to End 'Tax Break' Makes Refiners Target Washington State Wire, February 11, 2014 $12 Minimum Wage Measure Touted in Hearing; Real Battle Comes When Dems Count Votes Washington State Wire, February 5, 2014 Income inequality in Seattle: It's not as bad as you might think Puget Sound Business Journal, January 31, 2014 Initiative 522 creates more problems than it solves Yakima Herald-Republic, September 29, 2013 The Evolution of Food Pacific Northwest Inlander, September 25, 2013 Won't Cost a Dime? Average Family Food Bill Would Rise $490 a Year Under I-522, Says Opposition Report Washington State Wire, September 17, 2013 Tracking the Truth: I-522 TV ads KOMO News, September 17, 2013 Labor turns up heat over low wages Seattle Times, September 2, 2013 BNSF Railway Co. upgrade to help state compete in exports, officials say Tri-Cities Herald, August 29, 2013 Coal Ports, Rail Facilities Essential to Economic Growth, Says New Report -- Trade-Dependent State Shouldn't Take International Commerce for Granted Washington State Wire, August 18, 2013 Taxing recycled fuels hurts environment, economy Bellingham Herald, April 24, 2013 Legislature, Inslee face financial and political dilemmas Crosscut, January 7, 2013 Can Washington get its life sciences groove back? Crosscut, October 30, 2012 OFM Projects a Billion-Dollar Deficit for Next Year – But Wait, There’s More Washington State Wire, August 7, 2012 Roiled Over Raises Inside Higher Ed, July 11, 2012 Inslee, McKenna map paths to helping businesses Crosscut, June 29, 2012 Next Year’s Budget Could be $1.7 Billion out of Whack, Research Council Says Washington State Wire, April 19, 2012 Lawmakers wrap up session after marathon give and take Seattle Times, April 11, 2012 Budgets take on reality by degrees Wenatchee World, March 8, 2012 Union Ad Campaign Offers Roaring Confirmation That End to Early Retirement is Sticking Point in Budget Talks Washington State Wire, March 27, 2012 Once more with feeling: Pass a state budget without 'felony' gimmicks Seattle Times, March 9, 2012
- [Tax Policy](https://researchcouncil.org/topics/tax-policy/): Washington Businesses Pay More Than Half of State and Local Taxes Jan. 11, 2019
- [Employment Policy](https://researchcouncil.org/topics/employment-policy/): Key national employment policy rankings for Washington state: 1st in workers' compensation benefit costs per covered worker ($825.33) 3rd in benefit costs as a percent of covered wages (1.51 percent) Featured WRC Analysis:
I-1433: A “Blunt Instrument” Increasing the Minimum Wage and Mandating Paid Sick Leave August 10, 2016
By Mandating A Specific Compensation Mix, Labor Policies Take Flexibility Out of the Equation February 17, 2016
Mandating Paid Sick Leave in Washington March 9, 2015
The Long-Lasting, Negative Consequences of the Minimum Wage February 20, 2015
The Best Interests of Washington's Workers' Compensation System January 7, 2014
Other Resources:
Workers' Compensation: Benefits, Coverage and Costs, 2014 data (National Academy of Social Insurance, 2016)
Workers' Compensation Program Audit, Washington State Auditor (2016)
- [Economy & Competitiveness](https://researchcouncil.org/topics/economy/)
- [Budget](https://researchcouncil.org/topics/budget/)
- [Topics](https://researchcouncil.org/topics/): The Washington Research Council conducts research on a variety of policy issues affecting our state. Our primary areas of interest include:

## Publications
- [2026 Fiscal Management Performance Review](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/2026-fiscal-management-performance-review/): July 20, 2026
- [With the Income Tax, Washington Adds a New, Volatile Layer of Taxation](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/with-the-income-tax-washington-adds-a-new-volatile-layer-of-taxation/): June 23, 2026
- [State and Local Spending on Housing and Homelessness Has Increased Significantly](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/state-and-local-spending-on-housing-and-homelessness-has-increased-significantly/): April 30, 2026
- [Band-Aid Budget Redux](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/band-aid-budget-redux/): March 30, 2026
- [Comparing the Senate- and House-Passed 2026 Supplemental Operating Budgets](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/comparing-the-senate-and-house-passed-2026-supplemental-operating-budgets/): March 2, 2026
- [Washington Businesses Paid 50% of State and Local Taxes in 2024](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/washington-businesses-paid-50-of-state-and-local-taxes-in-2024/): January 28, 2026
- [SJR 8201: Investment Flexibility for Long-Term Care Funds](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/sjr-8201-investment-flexibility-for-long-term-care-funds/): September 29, 2025
- [With New Revenue Package, the Transportation Budget Balances Through 2027–29](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/with-new-revenue-package-the-transportation-budget-balances-through-2027-29/): July 30, 2025
- [Historically Large Tax Package Rushed Through at the End of Session](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/historically-large-tax-package-rushed-through-at-the-end-of-session/): July 22, 2025
- [The Band-Aid Budget: $9 Billion in New Taxes and $7 Billion in Savings, But No Lasting Solutions](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/the-band-aid-budget-9-billion-in-new-taxes-and-7-billion-in-savings-but-no-lasting-solutions/): July 17, 2025
- [Comparing Operating Budget Proposals](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/comparing-operating-budget-proposals/): March 27, 2025
- [Legislators Can Close the Budget Shortfall Without Raising Taxes](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/legislators-can-close-the-budget-shortfall-without-raising-taxes/): March 10, 2025
- [The Business Tax Burden in Washington is Above the National Average](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/the-business-tax-burden-in-washington-is-above-the-national-average/): November 4, 2024
- [Anatomy of the Projected State Budget Shortfall](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/anatomy-of-the-projected-state-budget-shortfall/): October 23, 2024
- [Washington Faces an Estimated $5.1 Billion Shortfall](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/washington-faces-an-estimated-5-1-billion-shortfall/): October 21, 2024
- [I-2117: Repealing the Climate Commitment Act](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/i-2117-repealing-the-climate-commitment-act/): October 8, 2024
- [I-2109: Repealing the State Capital Gains Tax](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/i-2109-repealing-the-state-capital-gains-tax/): September 26, 2024
- [I-2124: Making the State’s Long-Term Care Program Optional](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/i-2124-making-the-states-long-term-care-program-optional/): September 19, 2024
- [Where Does All the Money Go: Spending Carbon Emission Allowance Auction Proceeds in the Shadow of I-2117](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/where-does-all-the-money-go-spending-carbon-emission-allowance-auction-proceeds-in-the-shadow-of-i-2117/): July 9, 2024
- [The Importance of Constitutionally Protected Reserves: The Case of the WRPTA](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/the-importance-of-constitutionally-protected-reserves-the-case-of-the-wrpta/): May 3, 2024
- [The Supplemental Operating Budget Increases Spending 3.1% and Drains the Shadow Reserve Account](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/the-supplemental-operating-budget-increases-spending-3-1-and-drains-the-shadow-reserve-account/): March 20, 2024
- [Comparing the Senate- and House-Passed Supplemental Operating Budgets](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/comparing-the-senate-and-house-passed-supplemental-operating-budgets/): February 29, 2024
- [The Transportation Budget, Transportation Revenues, and Long-Term Funding Challenges](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/the-transportation-budget-transportation-revenues-and-long-term-funding-challenges/): November 6, 2023
- [Modest Operating Budget Growth in Inflationary Times](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/modest-operating-budget-growth-in-inflationary-times/): July 10, 2023
- [Seattle’s Payroll Expense Tax is Highly Concentrated and Shaping Up to Be a Volatile Revenue Source](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/seattles-payroll-expense-tax-is-highly-concentrated-and-shaping-up-to-be-a-volatile-revenue-source/): June 26, 2023
- [Comparing the Senate- and House-Passed Operating Budgets](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/comparing-the-senate-and-house-passed-operating-budgets/): April 10, 2023
- [The State Should Avoid Tapping Reserves While Revenues Are Growing](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/the-state-should-avoid-tapping-reserves-while-revenues-are-growing/): January 9, 2023
- [Washington’s Business Taxes Continue to Exceed National Average](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/washingtons-business-taxes-continue-to-exceed-national-average/): October 3, 2022
- [Cash Deficits in the Paid Family and Medical Leave Program Signal Additional Tax Increases Ahead](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/cash-deficits-in-the-paid-family-and-medical-leave-program-signal-additional-tax-increases-ahead/): August 22, 2022
- [Historically Large Supplemental Budget Also Sets Aside Significant (But Unprotected) Reserves](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/historically-large-supplemental-budget-also-sets-aside-significant-but-unprotected-reserves/): April 28, 2022
- [Biennial-Sized Spending in a Supplemental Year: Comparing the Senate- and HousePassed Budgets](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/biennial-sized-spending-in-a-supplemental-year-comparing-the-senate-and-housepassed-budgets/): March 4, 2022
- [Minimal Losses to Local Revenues in 2020 Are Largely Offset by Additional Federal Relief](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/minimal-losses-to-local-revenues-in-2020-are-largely-offset-by-additional-federal-relief/): February 18, 2022
- [A Surplus of $11.249 Billion: Gov. Inslee Would Increase Spending, but a Sustainable Budget Could Include Tax Reductions](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/a-surplus-of-11-249-billion-gov-inslee-would-increase-spending-but-a-sustainable-budget-could-include-tax-reductions/): February 2, 2022
- [How Should the State Spend Its Substantial Surplus?](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/how-should-the-state-spend-its-substantial-surplus/): December 14, 2021
- [Should Washington Be in the Long-Term Care Insurance Business?](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/should-washington-be-in-the-long-term-care-insurance-business/): October 14, 2021
- [With No Budget Shortfall to Address, Legislature Spent Heavily and Potentially Created Budget Challenges for the Future](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/with-no-budget-shortfall-to-address-legislature-spent-heavily-and-potentially-created-budget-challenges-for-the-future/): June 16, 2021
- [The Economic Contribution of Washington State’s Petroleum Refining Industry in 2019](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/the-economic-contribution-of-washington-states-petroleum-refining-industry-in-2019/): June 2021
- [Senate- and House-Passed Operating Budgets Would Needlessly Drain the Rainy Day Fund](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/senate-and-house-passed-operating-budgets-would-needlessly-drain-the-rainy-day-fund/): April 19, 2021
- [State Revenues Are Back to Pre-Pandemic Levels](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/state-revenues-are-back-to-pre-pandemic-levels/): March 22, 2021
- [Washington Does Not Have a Budget Shortfall](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/washington-does-not-have-a-budget-shortfall/): February 12, 2021
- [Taxing Captive Insurance](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/taxing-captive-insurance/): January 27, 2021
- [Unemployment Insurance Taxes Will Be a Headwind for the State Economy](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/unemployment-insurance-taxes-will-be-a-headwind-for-the-state-economy/): January 14, 2021
- [Washington’s Business Taxes Exceed National Average](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/washingtons-business-taxes-exceed-national-average/): January 8, 2021
- [Update on the Washington State Convention Center Addition Project](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/update-on-the-washington-state-convention-center-addition-project/): November 2, 2020
- [ESJR 8212: A Constitutional Amendment to Treat Long-Term Care Funds the Same as Other, Similar State Funds](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/esjr-8212-a-constitutional-amendment-to-treat-long-term-care-funds-the-same-as-other-similar-state-funds/): October 8, 2020
- [School Funding: Accounting for the Billions Spent in Response to McCleary](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/school-funding-accounting-for-the-billions-spent-in-response-to-mccleary/): October 5, 2020
- [Delaying Budget Action Would Deepen the Pain](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/delaying-budget-action-would-deepen-the-pain/): July 24, 2020
- [State Budgeting in the Great Recession, and Lessons for Today](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/state-budgeting-in-the-great-recession-and-lessons-for-today/): July 1, 2020
- [How Much of the State Budget is “Protected”?](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/how-much-of-the-state-budget-is-protected/): May 26, 2020
- [While Acknowledging the Increasingly Negative Economic Outlook, the Legislature Increases Appropriations by 20.5 Percent](https://researchcouncil.org/publications/while-acknowledging-the-increasingly-negative-economic-outlook-the-legislature-increases-appropriations-by-20-5-percent/): March 30, 2020

## Podcasts
- [Policy Today](https://researchcouncil.org/podcast/policy-today-gov-inslees-budget-proposal/)
- [Common Ground](https://researchcouncil.org/podcast/common-ground/)
- [90 Seconds with the Washington Research Council](https://researchcouncil.org/podcast/90-seconds-with-the-washington-research-council/)
- [In Focus](https://researchcouncil.org/podcast/in-focus/)

## Charts and Graphs
- [Washington Operating Spending](https://researchcouncil.org/charts_ct/charts-3/)
- [NGFS+ Operating Spending](https://researchcouncil.org/charts_ct/charts-2/)
- [All Funds Operating Spending](https://researchcouncil.org/charts_ct/washington-operating-spending/)

## Sliders
- [Slide 5](https://researchcouncil.org/slider/slide-5/)
- [Slide 4](https://researchcouncil.org/slider/slide-4/)
- [Slide 3](https://researchcouncil.org/slider/slide-3/)
- [Slide 2](https://researchcouncil.org/slider/330/)
- [Slide 1](https://researchcouncil.org/slider/slider/)