This bill establishes a framework for transferring funds from the budget stabilization account to the state general fund to address the increasing costs of services necessary for the health, welfare, and public safety of Washington residents. Specifically, it mandates that by June 15, 2026, the state treasurer will transfer $1,632,500,000 from the budget stabilization account to the state general fund. The intent is for these funds to be repaid to the budget stabilization account by the end of fiscal year 2029, with two scheduled repayments of $816,250,000 each on June 30, 2028, and June 30, 2029.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that these transfers will not affect the requirement to balance the budget in subsequent biennia, as outlined in RCW 43.88.055(4). This legislative action aims to ensure that critical state services can continue to be funded while also establishing a clear repayment plan to restore the budget stabilization account.