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Governor Inslee’s budget takes bold steps - significant housing investments are also needed in this biennium
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Statement on Governor Inslee Budget Proposal

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Governor Inslee’s budget proposal includes just the kind of investments we need to keep people in their homes and make more affordable housing and shelter available across the state. This will keep people safe during the pandemic and stabilize families and individuals for the long term. Overall, his proposal includes more than $750 million in new funding for affordable housing and preventing homelessness.  

Census Bureau from late November to early December found more than 181,000 people in households currently behind on rent in Washington – the majority of whom are people of color. We applaud the Governor for prioritizing housing stability for Washington residents! 

The Governor’s budget also raises the revenue needed to prevent cuts and make critical investments through a progressive capital gains tax. The legislature should build on the Governor’s budget with bold progressive revenue, increased protections for tenants, and long-term investments in rental assistance and affordable homes, to keep Washington residents safe, healthy, and housed.  

Affordable housing and homelessness investments in the Governor’s proposed budget include: 

  • $250 million to build approximately 3,390 affordable homes and preserve homes at risk of returning to market rate prices. 
  • $328 million for rental assistance for households behind on rent. 
  • $70 million to rapidly acquire and convert hotels and motels into shelter, transitional housing, or permanent supportive housing. 
  • $50 million to create safe alternatives to crowded, congregate shelters. 
  • $20 million to help low-income homeowners make home repairs. 
  • $17 million to prevent foreclosures. 
  • $10 million for environmental clean-up to make more land available for affordable housing. 
  • $8 million for the Anchor Community Initiative aimed at ending youth and young adult homelessness. 
  • $5 million for the Landlord Mitigation Program that provides incentives for landlords to rent to people using rental assistance. 

Read the Highlights of Governor Inslee's 2021-23 proposed budget here. 

 

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