Washington Legislature’s special session likely going into next week

OLYMPIA – Washington residents likely will get a visit from the Easter Bunny before their state lawmakers get a budget deal.

A spokeswoman for the Senate Majority Coalition Caucus said Wednesday that lawmakers have not yet reached agreement on the supplemental operating budget, which was the subject of discussions, debate, disagreement and negotiation during the 60-day regular session. Work on the unfinished budget forced them into a special session two weeks ago.

Wednesday was the 14th day of the special session, although most lawmakers have been away from the capital for much of that time. A few key members of the budget committees and leaders of the House and Senate have been around for negotiations and to handle the duties of convening and adjourning the Legislature each day. On Tuesday, the Senate session lasted a full 28 seconds.

Budget negotiations continue, spokeswoman Kimberly Wirtz said. There aren’t many details other than they haven’t reached a deal yet.

“We don’t expect members to return this week,” she said.

By law, the special session can last 30 days. A second special session would be needed if lawmakers don’t reach a budget deal and pass it in both houses by April 9.