SPOKANE, Wash. — Washington lawmakers are beginning negotiations on the state’s next budget as colleges and universities warn proposed cuts could further strain already tight resources.
Gov. Bob Ferguson’s budget proposal includes reductions for higher education, prompting concern from schools across the state, including Eastern Washington University and Washington State University. Sen. Marcus Riccelli, D-Spokane, said the proposal is only the first step in a longer process.
“Well, again, that’s the governor’s proposal. It’s a first draft,” Riccelli said. “The Legislature is now coming together to write a budget. So the governor is statutorily required to put out a budget… but again, we have separation of powers.”…