New Bills Promote Economic Security and Transparency

Several recently-introduced pieces of legislation would help create jobs, build lasting prosperity, and foster a more transparent and accountable state budget process. These measures, based on our research, would provide more resources and opportunities for struggling workers and families, while giving policymakers and the public more complete information about the ongoing costs and benefits of public investments.

These bills reflect the policy recommendations we made in our Framework for Prosperity to create a strong economy for all Washingtonians.

SB 5638 Fiscal Impacts-would add transparency and accountability to budget decisions by providing lawmakers with more information, including how cuts to one program may impact other areas of the budget. A broader view of the impact of budget decisions will help aid policymakers in making the best, most-informed judgments on how to prioritize state resources. Click here for analysis we did on a similar proposal. 

HB 1734/ SB 5643 Exemptions from the five-year time limit for recipients of TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) - provides more opportunities for people to find and keep a job by curtailing an onerous red tape barrier – an arbitrary time limit that is not connected to the state of the economy --that prevents struggling families from receiving work supports. It would ensure that parents who have disabilities, are victims of domestic violence, or live in areas with high unemployment (among other exemptions) would be able to continue to receive services. Click here for additional research.

HB 1671/ SB 5595 Child care- improves access to affordable child care for parents, supporting their efforts to find or keep a job. The proposed legislation increases the benefit amount provided to parents, allowing them greater access to providers, and establishes a program to reward child care providers for providing high-quality care. Click here for additional research.