House adopts conference report on 2026 omnibus appropriations after floor debate

The Washington State House adopted the conference committee report on Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 59 98, the 2026 omnibus appropriations measure, after floor remarks from both supporters and opponents.

Representative Ormsbee introduced the conference report, saying the budget protects core state services and that lawmakers had worked to backfill federal cuts. He characterized the measure as an imperfect but necessary set of investments to sustain services and titled some choices as measures to preserve trust and fiscal stability.

Opponents raised concerns about the budget’s growth and the inclusion of a new income tax assumption. Representative Connors said the plan risks rural communities, noting local service cuts and warning of capital flight and affordability pressures. Supporters, including Representative Gregersen, said the budget directs resources to food assistance, health care and disaster recovery and framed the package as a bipartisan effort to protect vulnerable residents.

The House took a roll‑call vote; the clerk reported 54 yays, 43 nays, 1 excused. Having received a constitutional majority, Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 59 98 was declared passed and transmitted to the Senate.