I thank Governor Inslee for his leadership in moving budget negotiations forward.

As the Governor said, compromise is the key to resolving the budget. The House proposal as it currently stands can’t pass the Senate, and the Senate plan can’t pass the House.

With the Governor’s help, we can reach a budget deal within the next 30 days, as long as all parties are willing to negotiate in good faith. I believe Governor Inslee’s involvement will help ensure all sides work together to find issues we can agree upon, as well as identify those that simply won’t fly in either chamber.

Both sides have been making progress on an education funding plan. We can make the same kind of progress on the state’s operating budget. We look forward to continuing our efforts to hammer out the details as soon as possible.

Rep. Frank Chopp, D-Seattle (43rd Legislative District), represents part of Seattle including Pike Place, Denny Regrade, Capitol Hill, Broadway, Madison Park, Washington Park, Broadmoor, Montlake, University District, Wallingford, Fremont, and downtown Seattle.

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