Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate
OLYMPIA… Sen. Matt Boehnke and his Senate Republican colleagues have proposed a new state operating budget that would fund the shared priorities of Washington residents without tax increases or spending cuts.
Their “$ave Washington” proposal offers a commonsense approach that prioritizes financial stability while protecting essential services.
“Washington taxpayers deserve a budget that works for them, not one that asks them to pay more for the same services,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. “This plan keeps our state financially stable while rejecting unnecessary tax hikes.”
“Instead of pushing new fees on state parks, hunting, and fishing, the $ave Washington plan makes responsible choices. No one goes backward under this budget — it’s an honest solution that prioritizes fiscal responsibility.”
The $75.6 billion proposal would have state government live within its means. While revenue growth is projected to be 7.6% for the 2025-27 budget cycle (an additional $5 billion), this plan would increase spending by just 5%, keeping the state on solid financial footing while maintaining vital programs.
“This budget challenges the idea that tax hikes are the only way forward. With state revenues expected to grow by $5 billion, we can maintain vital programs without demanding more from hardworking families. The $ave Washington budget protects education, public safety, and social services.”
“It also demands accountability in state spending, tightening the government’s belt where necessary while keeping Washington on a sustainable path. This is the right way to govern — without forcing taxpayers to foot the bill for unnecessary tax increases. Washingtonians have consistently expressed opposition to higher taxes.”
A recent poll found that 98% believe taxes are too high or about right, with 78% saying taxes are too high. Despite this, Democrats have proposed raising fees for state parks, hunting, and fishing, even though such hikes could reduce public participation.
“If we want a government that serves the people, we must make responsible choices. The $ave Washington budget does exactly that—balancing our state’s finances without cuts or tax increases. Instead of asking more from taxpayers, it controls spending and prioritizes what matters most—education, public safety, and services for vulnerable residents.”
The $ave Washington budget prioritizes education funding, ensuring K-12 receives a larger share of the budget for the first time in six years.
The plan also includes public-safety investments, such as funding Senate Bill 5060, backed by Governor Ferguson, which would provide grants to help communities hire more law enforcement officers. In addition, it would implement reforms at the Department of Children, Youth, and Families to reduce administrative costs and prioritize front-line workers.
The plan exempts public safety, social services, and K-12 education from across-the-board reductions, ensuring that vital services remain intact. However, it demands efficiency in other areas.
“If Democrats introduce a budget with tax increases, it’s because they want them—not because Washington needs them. This plan demonstrates that by freezing spending growth in key areas, we can balance the budget responsibly without burdening families or businesses.”
For more information on the $ave Washington plan, src.wastateleg.org/ave-washington.
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