Wednesday, June 25, 2025

WA may have to dip into emergency reserves, despite historic tax increases

 A recent report from the Economic and Revenue Forecast Council (ERFC) indicates that despite a historic tax increase and high revenue levels, Washington state could face a budget deficit by the end of the 2025-27 biennium.

• The state may become financially strained due to declining revenue projections.

• Treasurers and ERFC members discussed the possibility of using the rainy day fund to cover potential deficits.

• Concerns were raised about the state going negative if no action is taken by the end of the biennium.

• There is a window for budget adjustments since the biennium has just started.

• Various factors, including state caseloads and federal funding changes, will impact the need for legislative intervention.

• The budget stabilization account is projected to have a balance of $2.2 billion, which could help prevent a total deficit.

• Previous budget discussions had included significant tax increases, leading to criticism of potential negative outcomes.

The ERFC report highlights the need for careful monitoring and possible budget adjustments to avoid financial issues in the coming biennium, despite anticipated revenue growth.

https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_6db70777-2e6a-46fb-ba76-cbc087d31f42.html

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