OLYMPIA — The Senate has unanimously passed a bill that would move the state revenue forecast up a month earlier during legislative sessions when lawmakers must craft a two-year budget.
The measure, which passed Friday, was sponsored by Republican Sen. Andy Hill, chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee. The plan would move the forecast from March 20 to February 20 in odd-numbered years.
Hill says the goal is to expedite the budget-writing process so that lawmakers can finish their work on time. The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 12.
Lawmakers in the House and Senate wait to see the revenue forecast, which projects how much money the state is expected to take in during future budget cycles, before presenting their budget proposals.
The measure now heads to the House for consideration.
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