We're getting closer

We were too brain-weary by Saturday afternoon to post details of the House revenue proposal so we apologize for the delay. But as you've probably heard, the House and Senate this weekend both passed updated revenue packages and are getting closer to an agreement.

The House actually voted to approve a compromise package offered by Governor Gregoire. Much of the package looks similar to the earlier package passed by the House. Differences include keeping the sales tax exemption for elective cosmetic surgery, a slightly higher increase on the temporary B&O tax for certain professional services, and removal of the candy and gum sales tax provision.

The Senate's newest proposal still includes a sales tax increase, though they scaled back the increase from 3/5 to 1/5 of a cent.

So for now, everyone agrees that $800 million is the target, and everyone agrees on 13 of the 17 pieces of the package. A certain House leader predicts agreement on the revenue package and budget will happen by mid-week. We'll see!