Rep. Peter Abbarno: Overspending caused budget deficit, tax hikes not the answer

The Office of Financial Management has predicted a $10-$12 billion operating budget deficit in the next four years.

During a recent legislative preview panel discussion at the Washington Observer 2024 Re-Wire Conference, Rep. Peter Abbarno, House Republican Caucus Chair, addressed the state’s fiscal and economic challenges.

The 20th District lawmaker shared his thoughts that this biennium will see more revenue than in past years, and the budget deficit is a product of reckless overspending and poor choices by Democrats in the majority.

Abbarno also emphasized that tax hikes are a bad idea to remedy the deficit.

“At a time when people are struggling to make ends meet, looking at tax increases at any level, I think, is the wrong approach. State government should be focused on becoming more efficient, cutting waste and prioritizing spending.”

Read the full article from The Center Square here.

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov