The House Democrats released their 2015-17 operating budget proposal late Friday morning, and will hold a public hearing on it in the House Appropriations Committee Monday afternoon.

The budget proposed by the House majority party spends nearly $39 billion. That is several billion more than our current budget. Further, this proposal increases taxes by $1.5 billion. I do not agree with their plan to raise taxes. Revenue collections in Washington are up over 8 percent for this budget cycle as the economy begins to stabilize. Many in the state, including in the 35th Legislative District, are still recovering from the Great Recession and I am committed to ensuring they are not forgotten in the budget writing process.

Let your voice be heard

I believe state lawmakers need to hear from taxpayers on this proposal – not just special interest groups. As budget hearings begin, I encourage you to join the debate! You can do this by testifying at the hearings scheduled for the Appropriations Committee over the coming days. You can find the agenda for budget hearings here. For information on how to testify in committee, click here. If you can’t make it to Olympia, please contact me directly. I am always happy to listen to your concerns and comments. You can also call the legislative hotline at: 1-800-562-6000.

Thank you for being engaged in the legislative process.