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HB 1411

Limiting assumed revenues to projected revenues by the economic and revenue forecast council.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by April Connors and 6 co-sponsors

HB 1411 requires Washington state budgets to limit spending to official Economic and Revenue Forecast Council projections, preventing reliance on higher revenue assumptions.

First reading, referred to Appropriations.
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Bill Summary · HB 1411

Legislative bill overview

HB 1411 would restrict the state from budgeting based on revenue assumptions that exceed the official projections made by Washington's Economic and Revenue Forecast Council (ERFC). Currently, lawmakers can appropriate funds based on revenue estimates that may be higher than the council's formal forecast. This bill would tighten that practice by requiring budgets to align with the ERFC's official projections.

Why is this important

State budgets depend on accurate revenue forecasting. If spending is based on overly optimistic revenue assumptions, it can lead to budget shortfalls, delayed payments to schools and services, or the need for emergency budget cuts mid-year. This bill aims to enforce fiscal discipline by preventing lawmakers from relying on rosier revenue scenarios than the official forecast council provides.

Potential points of contention

  • Legislative flexibility vs. fiscal conservatism: Lawmakers may argue the bill removes their ability to make reasonable judgments about revenue that the council hasn't formally captured, while supporters say it prevents wishful thinking.
  • Definition and application: The bill's success depends on how "assumed revenues" versus "projected revenues" are legally defined—ambiguity could create disputes or unintended loopholes.
  • Economic forecast accuracy: If the ERFC's projections are frequently wrong, this bill could either prevent overspending (if too conservative) or force unnecessary austerity (if projections underestimate actual revenue).

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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