OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Washington lawmakers have reached a deal on limiting the state’s debt, closing one of the most contentious issues remaining in the special session.
Rep. Hans Dunshee of Snohomish said Tuesday the House and the Senate have agreed on reducing the state’s usage of bonds from 9 percent to 7.75 percent of state revenues. The change will not be a constitutional amendment, something that Senate leaders initially wanted.
Sen. Derek Kilmer of Gig Harbor declined to give further details, but said the approach to reducing the debt is different than the original proposals.
The Senate has wanted a constitutional amendment that would eventually reduce the state’s usage of bonds from 9 percent to 7 percent of state revenues. Dunshee and House Democrats were concerned the curbs would lead to cuts for a variety of construction projects, including schools, that could force local governments to pay an increased share and potentially have to raise taxes.
The special session is scheduled to end Wednesday.
