Oregon Public Broadcasting

Washington governor Chris Gregoire has sent a seven page critique to House and Senate budget writers. In the memo, she asks them to consider revisions to their proposed budgets.

Lawmakers are working to close a $9 billion shortfall. Olympia correspondent Austin Jenkins has details.

In education, Gregoire opposes cuts to teacher in-service days. In social services, the Governor proposes a way to keep open both the Naselle and Green Hill facilities for juvenile offenders. In criminal justice, the Governor asks for $5 million back to verify sex offender addresses.

Gregoire’s budget director Victor Moore wrote the memo. He says the Governor has an obligation to point out her concerns before lawmakers vote on a final budget.

Victor Moore: “In the end the Governor is not going to be in the middle of every negotiation, but I think she does owe it to them to point out the things that she has either a policy concern or maybe just a technical concern that the cuts are unachievable.”

In the memo, the Governor asks the legislature to protect a couple of her pet projects. She also warns that some of the proposed cuts are unrealistic.

Lawmakers have until April 26th to approve a new two-year budget if they’re to adjourn on time.