The Capital budget's fate is still undetermined though looking more promising with its passage from Senate Ways & Means committee this week. A new bill introduced would expand ECAP eligibility and the House and Senate school breakfast bills are moving through the process.
Capital Budget Uncertainty Jeopardizes Federal Housing Applications
The Housing Consortium of Everett & Snohomish County has released an action alert that says that "at least 160+ new affordable homes are at risk if a capital budget is not passed by January 17. Not to mention critical funding for Housing Hope’s HopeWorks Station and Cocoon House’s new facility." On Monday, the Senate Committee on Ways & Means approved Senate Bill 6090 (Capital Budget) and the bill now awaits a full Senate vote and House consideration. The concern is that today, January 17, is the date by which affordable housing organizations must submit applications for federal funding.
New Bill Would Expand ECAP Eligibility
Rep. Roger Goodman has introduced HB 2659. This bill would expand the eligibility for early childhood and assistance program include children in families living below 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level, consistent with the Free and Reduced Lunch Program in K-12 education. Only 33 percent of children in this income group arrive at Kindergarten ready for school. The bill awaits a hearing in House Early Learning and Health Services Committee
House Passes School Breakfast Bill; Senate Committee moves similar bill
For the second time in two years, the House has approved H.B. 1508, which would enhance school nutrition. The bill is now awaits consideration by the Senate Ways and Means Committee. Meanwhile, the Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee approved a similar bill, SB 6003. Here's the bills (and status) that we're following.
Don't Forget Lobby Day is February 1st
Governor Inslee will provide opening remarks for our evening reception. Learn more.
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