My Fellow Washingtonians,

As I present my final budget proposal as your governor, I reflect on the remarkable progress we have made together and the values that guide our shared future.

Over the past 12 years, Washington emerged from the Great Recession to lead the nation in clean energy, quality education, and greater access to health care, child care, and economic opportunity. We’ve pioneered groundbreaking programs such as Paid Family and Medical Leave and WA Cares. Through landmark initiatives such as the Climate Commitment Act, we’ve tackled the climate crisis head-on, placing those most affected at the center of our efforts.

These 2025–27 budget proposals build on that work and protect the progress we’re making.

Washington's strong economy has created extraordinary wealth for a few, while rapid growth and rising costs have made it harder for working families to piece together child care, housing and health care. Urgent needs in education and behavioral health continue to demand our attention. As we work to address a budget gap, we must also be ready for the incoming federal administration to follow through on its plans to cut funding for important social programs.

As legislators consider options for closing this sizable budget gap, I urge them to heed the lessons of the past when deep cuts left millions of hard-working Washingtonians bearing the costs. This is not the time to retreat from our efforts – it’s time to be resolute in our commitment to moving forward.

We approached balancing the budget first by looking for savings in our own operations. We’ve paused nonessential programs, delayed expansions, rightsized state agencies to work nimbly, and implemented a statewide spending freeze.

Even with these actions, protecting our progress on the issues Washingtonians care about requires additional revenue. That’s why this budget includes targeted tax adjustments on the wealthiest multi-millionaires and businesses in Washington to ensure those with the greatest means contribute their fair share.

Washingtonians have always risen to the challenges we face, and I am confident that we will do so again. This budget will maintain progress toward a stronger, more equitable state. As I prepare to leave office, I am deeply grateful for what we have accomplished together and remain optimistic about the road ahead.

Very truly yours, 

Jay Inslee