Rep. Engell and Sen. Short discuss state budgets, income tax proposal, and rural priorities on KOMW

March 2, 2026

Rep. Andrew Engell and Sen. Shelly Short joined KOMW’s Live From Olympia to discuss the recently passed operating, transportation, and capital budgets and key issues affecting the 7th Legislative District.

Short and Engell criticized the operating budget for relying on a proposed income tax and one-time funding shifts, warning it creates long-term instability and expands state spending beyond sustainable levels. They also addressed strong public opposition to the income tax proposal and raised concerns about the bill’s emergency clause, which would make it more difficult for voters to challenge the measure.

Engell highlighted bipartisan progress on his diagnostic imaging bill, which is headed to the governor’s desk and will help rural hospitals continue using advanced practice providers in emergency departments.

The lawmakers also discussed wildfire funding, data center regulation, and transportation investments, emphasizing the importance of protecting rural economies, local utilities, and infrastructure priorities.

They closed by reaffirming their commitment to working together as a district team to advocate for northeastern Washington during the final weeks of session.