Inslee imposes government spending freeze amid projected revenue shortfall

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Governor Jay Inslee has declared a spending freeze for Washington state government agencies in response to a projected $400 million revenue shortfall through 2029.

It’s unclear if the main cause is state spending, inflation or a combination of both.

The governor's office said the decision comes as the costs and needs of running state government are increasing faster than revenue.

The freeze affects non-essential hiring, service contracts, purchasing, and travel. However, spending on critical services, goods, equipment, and travel, as well as hiring to fill vacancies in critical areas, are exempt from the freeze.

The governor's announcement did not specify the expected savings from the spending freeze.

Gov. Inslee is required by law to propose a balanced budget over four years.

The next revenue forecast is expected to be done by March 20, 2025.