Washington

What Are the Budget Issues Facing Washington?

In 2009, Washington faces a $509 million budget gap representing 3.4% of the general fund. In 2010, Washington is looking at an even greater $2.8 billion shortfall, 18.2% of the general fund.

What the Federal Stimulus Proposal Will Mean for Children in Washington

The economic stimulus recently passed by the United States Congress and signed into law by the Obama Administration will provide significant investment in the health, education, and safety of America’s children over the next two years. It also provides significant support to their parents and grandparents. Highlights include:

• $2,060,000,000 in relief for Washington’s Medicaid costs. Medicaid provides health care coverage for low-income children and seniors.
• $819,900,000 in relief to the state of Washington to prevent cuts to programs for school-aged children.
• $181,000,000 for the Title I academic achievement of the disadvantaged program.
• $225,300,000 services to children with disabilities in Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funding.
• $40,700,000 for other education programs in Washington’s schools.
• $392,000,000 in food stamps for 663,000 Washington men, women, and children.
• $25,100,000 in emergency shelter grants for 5,000 households.
• 223,000 Washington children will benefit from the child tax credit provisions of the legislation.
• $33,351,204 in Emergency Child Care and Development Block Grant funds to provide child care to 5,530 Washington children.
• An increase in unemployment benefits to 404,051 Washington families.
• $27,900,000 in additional child support enforcement matching funds.
• $23,700,000 in youth training employment services.

How Have Washington’s Senators Have Voted on Important Children’s Legislation in 2009?
Maria Cantwell (D)

Patty Murray (D)

Sources: State Budget Information, Stimulus Information