Friday, March 2, 2012

Senate gets closer to budget vote

For those of you still following the drama in the Senate chambers, Majority Leader Tracey Eide, D-Federal Way, just requested that a number of amendments be withdrawn, leaving just two on the bar for debate BEFORE they start on the floor speeches about the budget. Like all the other amendments offered tonight, these are expected to be defeated. (However, as this was being written, an amendment regarding higher education was adopted.)

In addition to previously mentioned amendments, Senate Democrats also proposed buying back the $19 million that would be reduced in national board bonuses.

One of the most spirited moments was the discussion about restoring the Readiness to Learn funding. Senator Sharon Nelson, D-Vashon Island, asked why $3 million could be prioritized for fair prizes but programs that help kids and families get cut. The debate went back and forth, with passions on display.

Senate Republicans were well organized on the amendments and returned to a message that their budget represented their priorities, and that they could no longer afford to fund even good programs. Others said that perhaps programs could be bought back in the negotiated budget.

At 11:30 p.m., the last amendment was defeated, with Democratic Sens. Kastama, Sheldon, and Tom continuing to vote with Senate Republicans. Debate has now started on the Zarelli striking amendment.