As we enter the final stretch of the interim, the Washington State Legislature is gearing up for a new session that begins on January 13, 2025.
This 105-day session will be packed with activity as legislators debate new policies and develop biennial budgets. Legislators will have many challenges to address this session, including budget shortages. As legislators prepare during the remaining interim months, several factors will shape the policy landscape for 2025.
November 5: Election Day
The upcoming general election on November 5, 2024, is particularly significant this year. Many legislative seats are up for grabs, and the results will likely bring a wave of new faces to Olympia. These new legislators will influence the political dynamics in terms of committee composition and leadership. Election outcomes will directly impact policy priorities and the 2025 legislative agenda. New committee members may bring fresh perspectives, while shifts in priorities or leadership can alter the course of proposed legislation. Washingtonians will select a new Governor, Attorney General, Public Lands Commissioner, and Insurance Commissioner. Voters will also make consequential decisions on key initiatives.
Late November/Early December: Committee Reorganization
Once the election dust settles, legislative leaders will turn their attention to committee reorganization. Each chamber will reassign members to committees based on seniority and available committee chair positions, as well as incoming legislators. This process usually happens in late November or early December.
December 9-13: Committee Assembly Days
One of the last major events before the session begins is Committee Assembly Days. Bifurcated between House and Senate meetings, Assembly Days are scheduled for the week of December 9. During this time, standing committees will meet in Olympia to discuss and refine policy priorities for the 2025 session. These meetings are crucial for setting the groundwork for legislation. Committees will hear reports, conduct work sessions, and introduce new members. It’s during Committee Assembly Days that legislators often refine their priorities for session, including evaluating emerging issues and begin drafting bills. Stakeholders should keep a close watch on these meetings, which can provide early indications of dominant policy areas during session.
Mid-December: Governor’s Budget Release
Another key event to watch for is the release of the Governor’s budget proposal in mid-December. This budget will outline the current Inslee administration’s fiscal priorities for the upcoming biennium and is the underlying framework for the budget, which is then revised by the Legislature. The budget proposal will kickstart interim discussions about how to allocate state resources, especially in light of current economic conditions. Once in office, the newly elected Governor must share his own priorities with the Legislature to take into account when developing the final budget. At this point, it is unclear when these new priorities will be available for the Legislature to consider. Given that Washington is facing a significant budget deficit, the Governor’s proposal will have to address tough choices about potential cuts or revenue increases.
Interim Committee Meetings & Agendas
Committees are meeting periodically leading up to the start of the 2025 legislative session. The months leading up to session are critical in terms of agenda development – committee meetings often provide insight into what members will work on, and where their colleagues stand on the issue. Stay tuned-in when meetings are scheduled and agendas are updated by clicking here.
Budget Shortfalls and Fiscal Challenges Ahead
As Washington looks toward the 2025 session, one of the biggest challenges facing lawmakers is a multi-billion dollar operating budget deficit. According to the latest economic revenue forecast, the state faces substantial shortfalls due to a combination of decreased revenue growth and increased spending obligations. Thus far, the Legislature must allocate additional funding to K-12 education and special education, and must account for collective bargaining in the operating budget.
To make matters more challenging, several ballot initiatives up for a vote in November could exacerbate the deficit. If certain tax-limiting measures pass, they could eliminate key funding sources, forcing lawmakers to either make significant cuts or find alternative revenue streams. The fiscal environment is expected to be contentious during session, with debates likely centered on how to balance the budget while preserving essential services.
Preparing for a Busy Legislative Session
With just three months left in the interim, now is the time for policymakers, advocates, and stakeholders to start preparing for the 2025 legislative session. Key dates like the November election, committee reorganization, and the Governor’s budget release will shape the political and fiscal landscape as lawmakers return to Olympia. By staying informed and engaged, you’ll be better positioned to navigate the coming months and influence the policies that matter most to you.
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