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SB 5166

Making 2023-2025 fiscal biennium second supplemental operating appropriations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by T'wina Nobles and 1 co-sponsor

Washington bill reallocates state funds to agencies during fiscal 2023-2025 biennium in response to unforeseen needs or budget adjustments.

Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Ways & Means at 4:00 PM.
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Bill Summary · SB 5166

Legislative bill overview

SB 5166 is a supplemental operating appropriations bill for Washington State's 2023-2025 fiscal biennium, introduced by Senators June Robinson and T'wina Nobles. The bill reallocates or adds funding to state agency budgets beyond what was originally appropriated in the main budget. As a "second supplemental," this represents additional adjustments after the initial supplemental appropriations bill.

Why is this important

Supplemental appropriations bills allow legislatures to respond to unforeseen circumstances, funding shortfalls, or changed priorities mid-biennium without waiting for the next regular budget cycle. For Washington residents, this determines whether state agencies can address unexpected needs—from education and healthcare to transportation and social services—or if some programs face mid-year cuts.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of specificity in available information: The bill's actual funding amounts, which agencies receive allocations, and the stated justifications are not yet public, making it impossible to assess whether funds address genuine emergencies or represent policy priorities some lawmakers oppose
  • Timing and fiscal health: Whether supplemental spending is necessary depends on Washington's revenue performance and reserve levels; critics may argue excess supplementals indicate poor budget planning or revenue forecasting
  • Competing priorities: Different constituencies will advocate for their preferred agencies and programs to receive additional funds, with education, healthcare, and social services typically competing for limited supplemental dollars

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

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