Dec. 18, 2008

Rep. Alexander comments on governor's budget

Rep. Gary Alexander, R-Olympia, released the following statement today regarding Gov. Christine Gregoire's budget:

"The governor's budget says, 'We cannot afford to do many of the things we'd like to.'  This is basically what House Republicans have been saying for the last four years, and we're glad to see she's come to that realization.

"In 2007, the majority party in the Legislature passed an unsustainable budget that spent $1.7 billion more than we had.  Even with a good economy, promises were made that everyone knew would not be kept.  We also need to remember that revenue for the next biennium is expected to go up by around five percent.  To me, that says we're in a situation that could have been significantly reduced if responsible, sustainable budgeting principles were embraced four years ago.

"I commend the governor for putting forth a balanced budget that does not raise taxes or fees.  House Republicans have long believed that increasing taxes or fees is not the right approach while families are struggling with everyday expenses and workers are losing jobs.

"While there are certainly some details of her plan that we might do differently, the governor has offered a good first step in correcting the past four years of overspending.  However, I think we can -- and should -- do more.

"I believe the most important bill we pass this session will be the 2009 supplemental budget, and we should do it within the first five days of session.

"The governor had to make some difficult, but right, decisions today.  If we can immediately implement $500 million of savings in the 2009 supplemental budget right away, we can save $2 billion of our estimated $5 billion shortfall for the 2009-11 biennium.

"House Republicans stand ready to pass the 2009 supplemental budget within the first week of session.  We are ready and willing to work with the governor to help pass a responsible, sustainable budget which doesn't raise taxes or fees on struggling families." 

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