Special session ends: $480 million in cuts and more to come

By Christina Lorella

On Dec. 14, Washington State legislators put an end to their special session at the Capitol building in Olympia, Wash. In an 86-8 vote, lawmakers passed House Bill 2058, approving $480 million in revisions aimed at repairing the state’s $2 billion shortfall.

The special session, which was called by Gov. Chris Gregoire, was scheduled to last up to 30 days. Instead, the House adjourned after 17, addressing only one-fourth of the state’s budget gap.

The session did not tackle Gregoire’s proposal to cut an additional $160 million to higher education, which would result in another 17 percent decrease in state funding to the University of Washington and other state universities. If approved, UW faces the possible elimination of the State Need grant, as well as the Work Study program. These cuts would potentially put an end to “The Husky Promise” scholarship program.

In addition, legislators did not address Gregoire’s proposal to temporarily increase the state sales tax by a half-penny per dollar, which would generate an additional $500 million a year in revenue. The three year sales tax would primarily benefit education, but a small portion of the earnings would go towards public safety and social services, as well. If passed, this would be the first state sales tax increase in 28 years.

If the sales tax increase is approved, Gregoire has promised to “buy back” her proposed cuts to public education, according to recent speeches.

Gregoire has also proposed the privatization of the state lottery. She said it has the potential to lead to a more efficient system that brings in much-needed funding for state education funds.

These decisions are expected to be made during the 60 day regular session, scheduled to begin on Jan. 9. Freddie Hensen, president of the Associated Students of UW Bothell, urges students to send their representatives personal, anecdotal letters prior to the session, expressing the effect that the cuts will have on their education and on their futures.

Click here to find contact information for your local representative.

In addition, a Facebook page has been created by concerned UW students, who provide up-to-date information about how to get get involved. Click here to join “UW Bark Against Budget Cuts“ or to sign a petition urging Washington State legislatures to reconsider.