By The Herald Editorial Board

The Legislature's $43.7 billion two-year budget—which took negotiations within hours of a partial state government shutdown—is signed, but some lawmakers haven't had quite enough brinkmanship for the year.

Now the state's $4 billion capital budget, which provides the funding for construction of public schools, colleges, universities, community and youth facilities, parks, environmental projects, and more, is being held up by the Republican-controlled Senate until lawmakers can resolve a disagreement over water rights for private development.

The MBA held its annual Hill Day in Olympia last Wednesday, February 8, providing an opportunity for members to advocate for our top-priority housing issues. Twenty-five members and Government Affairs staff met with over 30 King and Snohomish county-based legislators throughout the day.

Members discussed our core issues with senators and representatives, including the need to restore vested development rights, improve the process for measuring buildable land supply, find a path forward for permit-exempt wells in the wake of the Supreme Court's Hirst decision, and support workforce development.

MBA members also shared with legislators our new housing attainability piece, describing steps needed to bring housing supply more in line with our region's strong demand.

During the lunch break, Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon (34th District) met with the MBA to provide a legislative update. Fitzgibbon is sponsoring a bill, HB 1862, backed by the MBA, that would allow final subdivision plat approvals to be conducted administratively.

Thanks to all our members who participated and helped make sure our association's voice is heard in Olympia!

Know a service organization that could use a new coat of paint? Painting a Better Tomorrow celebrates its 15th anniversary this November and we’re looking for a recipient organization in King or Snohomish County. If you have an organization in mind, have them submit an application by the July 31 deadline.

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