Shea votes against operating budget measure, cites tax increases and other concerns
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Shea votes against operating budget measure, cites tax increases and other concerns
State lawmakers voted Friday to approve a two-year $33.5 billion state operating budget and sent it to the governor for his signature. The budget document comes just in the nick of time to begin funding the new fiscal cycle of state government, which begins July 1.
The vote in the House of Representatives was 81-11. Rep. Matt Shea, R-Spokane Valley, was among those who voted against the budget measure, Senate Bill 5034.
Shea issued the following statement:
“I voted 'no' because this bill depends on two tax increases, including the retroactive death tax, to fund bigger government. It is two-billion dollars bigger than the previous budget cycle. It implements Obamacare, relies on two-billion dollars more in federal money and sweeps the Public Works Trust Fund. Plus, it provides funding for abortions through Planned Parenthood.
“Interestingly, after all of those votes this year to provide tuition assistance to illegal immigrants, the 'Dream Act' was not funded in this spending plan.
“There were too many things wrong with this measure and I could not in good conscience support such a flawed budget.”