A tale of two budgets: Republican leaders see big differences between Senate and House proposals
Republican leaders praised what they called a fiscally responsible and bipartisan proposed Senate operating budget that funds public safety and education priorities. In contrast, they said a proposal from House Democrats that spreads available revenue across state programs ignores critical needs the state is facing right now. Lawmakers also discussed potential changes to police pursuit and drug possession laws, housing policy, hospital funding, a proposed ban on so-called assault weapons, and tax proposals being kept alive by House Democrats.
House Republican Leader J.T. Wilcox (R-Yelm) was joined by Rep. Drew Stokesbary (R-Auburn), Senate Republican Leader John Braun (R-Centralia) and Sen. Lynda Wilson (R-Vancouver).
