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Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson's early approach to fix WA $10B budget deficit

Washington Governor-elect Bob Ferguson has outlined his initial approach to address the state's projected $10 billion budget deficit over the next three years. His strategy includes a focus on economic development, particularly in sectors like clean energy, aerospace, and technology, to boost job creation and revenue. Ferguson plans to review and potentially reform the state's tax structure, which he describes as regressive, aiming to make it more equitable without increasing the tax burden on lower and middle-income families. He has also expressed intentions to protect essential services like education, mental health, and public safety, while seeking efficiencies in government operations. Additionally, Ferguson is considering the use of the state's rainy day fund and is open to new revenue sources, though he has not detailed specific tax proposals yet. His approach emphasizes collaboration with the legislature to find bipartisan solutions to the fiscal challenges facing Washington.

Read the Full Seattle Times Article at:
[ https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/politics/gov-elect-bob-fergusons-early-approach-to-fix-wa-10b-budget-deficit/ ]