Our state Legislature continues to meet in a special session to try to solve the significant budget challenges facing Washington State. Currently there is estimated to be a $500 million budget shortfall and the Governor is requesting lawmakers to set aside a $500 million reserve bringing the total budget gap to $1 billion.

At the heart of the matter are significant structural reforms that must be addressed if our state’s financial situation is to get on sound footing. The historic economic challenges we are currently experiencing require that the state address some structural issues that are currently preventing long term budget sustainability. Reports that the budget is being held up because lawmakers will not compromise on an important change to the state pension system are discouraging. A proposal from Senator Joe Zarelli would move the retirement age to receive full benefits from 62 to 65 for new employees. This is a fiscally balanced recommendation.

We have all had to make changes and sacrifices as a result of the economic climate we live in.

Providing state employees with full retirement benefits after 30 years of service at the age of

65 is a generous return for their service and, in fact, exceeds what most workers in the private sector can expect to receive. Legislators need to recognize the economic reality we all live in and support this kind of common-sense reform.

Respectfully,

Board of Directors

Greater Maple Valley-Black Diamond Chamber of Commerce