Jan 31 2025 2 mins
Washington state is facing a critical budget shortfall of more than $12 billion over the next four years, prompting immediate action from Governor Bob Ferguson. Since taking office on January 15, 2025, Ferguson has signed three executive orders addressing housing, reproductive freedom, and permitting reform[1]. Additionally, he has announced budget priorities that include $4 billion in reduced spending and new investments in public safety, housing, ferries, and policies to reduce costs for families[1].
The state legislature has also begun its 2025 session, focusing on the budget, police funding, and housing issues. Lawmakers are considering new taxes, bills to fund law enforcement hiring, and a statewide rent-hike cap[2]. These efforts aim to address the state's significant budget gap and improve public safety, which has been a concern due to a statewide fentanyl epidemic and low law enforcement per capita[1].
On a positive note, Washington has been ranked the best state for entrepreneurs in 2025, thanks to its lack of corporate income tax and strong business growth. The state saw 110.8% year-over-year business growth and relatively lower levels of inflation[3].
In environmental news, Seattle is experiencing an unusually dry January, potentially becoming the third driest January on record. Despite this, the snowpack in Washington state remains near average, except for some Puget Sound basins[4].
Looking Ahead:
- The state legislature will continue to address the budget shortfall and other key issues until its session adjourns in late April.
- Governor Ferguson's rapid response team will work to reduce harms caused by potential immigration enforcement policies.
- The impact of the dry weather on Washington's agriculture and water resources will be closely monitored as the situation develops.
The state legislature has also begun its 2025 session, focusing on the budget, police funding, and housing issues. Lawmakers are considering new taxes, bills to fund law enforcement hiring, and a statewide rent-hike cap[2]. These efforts aim to address the state's significant budget gap and improve public safety, which has been a concern due to a statewide fentanyl epidemic and low law enforcement per capita[1].
On a positive note, Washington has been ranked the best state for entrepreneurs in 2025, thanks to its lack of corporate income tax and strong business growth. The state saw 110.8% year-over-year business growth and relatively lower levels of inflation[3].
In environmental news, Seattle is experiencing an unusually dry January, potentially becoming the third driest January on record. Despite this, the snowpack in Washington state remains near average, except for some Puget Sound basins[4].
Looking Ahead:
- The state legislature will continue to address the budget shortfall and other key issues until its session adjourns in late April.
- Governor Ferguson's rapid response team will work to reduce harms caused by potential immigration enforcement policies.
- The impact of the dry weather on Washington's agriculture and water resources will be closely monitored as the situation develops.