OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — The Legislature has passed a pair of bills meant to trim state costs in the face of a $2.7 billion deficit.
One measure would cut about $45 million from general state spending by restricting hiring, service contracting, out-of-state travel and larger equipment purchases, with some exceptions.
The second bill bans bonuses for many state workers, although some higher-paid employees would be exempt.
Both bills were approved unanimously by the House on Wednesday and now head to Gov. Chris Gregoire’s desk.
