OLYMPIA, Wash. – The 2026 legislative session in Washington State is set to begin on January 12, with the state budget and infrastructure taking center stage.
Governor Bob Ferguson has introduced a supplemental budget proposal aimed at addressing a $1.6 billion shortfall, with assurances that this can be achieved without raising taxes or eliminating corporate tax breaks.
One major focus is the North Spokane Corridor, part of a larger statewide issue regarding underfunded road and bridge preservation. It is estimated that an additional $1 million is needed annually to prevent further deterioration.
While most agree on the importance of addressing infrastructure issues, finding a new long-term revenue source remains a challenge.
Additionally, discussions on Friday included two initiatives related to parental rights and transgender athletes. Democratic leaders, including House Speaker Laurie Jinkins and Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen, plan to present these measures for a vote in November.
Let’s Go Washington claims to have submitted more than 400,000 signatures for each initiative. The Secretary of State’s office will need several weeks to verify these signatures.
