Legislature adjourns; 2007 session now over

Lawmakers are now heading home after four months working in the statehouse:

Washington lawmakers adjourned their "Families First" session Sunday night after producing an ambitious $33.4 billion state budget that dips into the state's surplus to spend heavily on education, health care and the environment.

Gavels fell at 9:41 p.m. to end the 105-day session.

Democrats, who have the governor's mansion and lopsided majorities in both houses after last fall's landslide election, touted their achievements as bold and progressive.

"This legislative session was marked by strategic and responsible changes that Washington families can count on," Gov. Chris Gregoire said. "Washingtonians asked us to set a new agenda by investing in and reforming education, addressing our health-care crisis and helping to create family-wage jobs. We are delivering."

There were a number of disappointments, most notably the Homeowners' Bill of Rights, a proposal to protect Maury Island, and a bill recognizing the First Amendment rights of student journalists - as well as legislation to reform the initiative process and shine sunlight on tax exemptions.

We're also unhappy that teachers and school employees were robbed of nearly $100 million in promised retirement benefits and cost of living adjustments. The Legislature should keep the promises it makes.

Despite those letdowns, the session was a resounding success. Democrats led the way in moving Washington forward through a series of landmark accomplishments. NPI congratulates lawmakers on passing a budget that largely reflects Washington's values and responds to the needs of the Evergreen State.

There's a lot to be proud of and a lot to celebrate.