State budget proposal increases funding for K-12 schools & higher education

The Washington House and Senate released their 2019-2021 budget proposal today (April 27). 

The new state budget proposal addresses several important education issues that affect WEA members: 

• Restoring much-needed local levy flexibility to allow local voters to meet the needs of their students beyond state-funded basic education. As of 6 pm Saturday, the Legislature was still working on the final details of a levy solution.  
• Fully funding the new state-run health insurance system for educators as negotiated with the state. The budget funds the coalition’s ratified agreement.  
• Increasing state funding by $155 million to support special education students. 

The proposed budget increases K-12 funding by almost 20 percent from current levels because of the final phase-in of McCleary funding and new proposals. It also includes a significant investment in higher education, depending on new revenue.

Lawmakers in Olympia have until Sunday night to pass the budget and related bills, otherwise a special session will be needed.

WEA members are encouraged to email their legislators and urge them to pass a “clean” school levy bill without amendments.

We’ll provide a more detailed budget summary next week after the final budget is approved.