OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington state Senate introduced a $723 million proposal for the 2026 supplemental capital budget, a follow up to the $7.5 billion 2025-27 capital budget passed last year.
Sen. Yasmin Trudeau, vice-chair of the Senate Ways & Means Committee, emphasized the budget’s bipartisan nature. “Our approach to the capital budget has always been rooted in bipartisan collaboration that recognizes the diversity of our state and the broad needs of all our people,” said Trudeau in a release.
The proposal focuses on water infrastructure and conservation, with $20 million allocated for irrigation and flood prevention. It also includes $50 million for flood recovery, addressing damage from December 2025 floods.
Sen. Mike Chapman, deputy vice-chair for the capital budget, praised the budget’s focus on recovery and readiness. “Last December’s floods provided a devastating reminder that we must invest in both recovery and readiness when it comes to extreme weather and this budget does both,” said Chapman.
Affordable housing is a key component, with $150 million proposed for construction. This builds on the $776 million investment in the 2025-27 budget.
Education funding includes $93.6 million for K-12 schools, with policy changes to ensure reliable funding for school modernization.
Sen. Mark Schoesler, a ranking Republican on the Senate capital budget, highlighted fiscal responsibility. “I’m pleased with our supplemental capital budget, as it addresses several important needs throughout Washington while being fiscally responsible,” said Schoesler.
Environmental investments include $50 million for clean energy upgrades and cleanup of abandoned tires near Richland. The budget also supports collaboration with tribal governments on clean energy projects.
The proposal will be discussed in the Senate Ways & Means Committee at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24. The hearing will be available on TVW.
