Special session for Legislature needed, Gregoire says

Published 9:01 pm Friday, April 15, 2011

OLYMPIA — Gov. Chris Gregoire said today she will have to call state lawmakers into special session to pass a new budget and a slew of bills related to carrying it out.

She said after meeting with Democratic and Republican leaders it was clear they will not have everything finished before the legislative session is scheduled to end April 24.

“They can’t mechanically get there so I accept that,” she said. “I think it’s unfortunate, and I hope it doesn’t discourage them from working and working hard because they have a lot to get done.”

Gregoire said she’ll wait until next week to announce a starting date for the extra session.

Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown, D-Spokane, told reporters earlier today that her preference is to begin April 25.

“The Senate is interested in working until we get this done,” she said.

Gregoire said Monday “is an option but it is only an option. I’m not ready to say come back on Monday.”

She said it’s her understanding lawmakers want to finish the extra session before the next revenue forecast comes out in mid-June.

By law, special sessions can last up to 30 days.