If Democrats expect to keep the comfortable majorities they enjoy in both the houses of the Legislature, they’ll need to convince moderate voters that they’re spending tax dollars carefully. If they earn a reputation for squandering money – a picture Republicans will surely try to paint – power could quickly tilt back toward the GOP.
It’s in Democrats’ interest to join Senate Republicans, and Democratic Gov. Chris Gregoire, in approving a constitutionally protected rainy day reserve fund. A constitutional amendment requires two-thirds approval in both houses, then a public vote, so broad Democratic support is required.
This idea isn’t new – it’s been raised several times over the years, and was introduced last year by GOP Sen. Joe Zarelli. Gregoire has embraced it this year, adding a modest counterbalance to her aggressive 2007-09 spending plan and giving the issue momentum.
Details of plans proposed by Republicans and Gregoire are mostly the same: 1 percent of state general revenues would be set aside in a rainy day fund each year, and it would take a 60 percent legislative majority to tap it during good economic times. Once the balance exceeds 10 percent of general-fund revenues, excess money could be spent with a simple majority.
In the one key area of disagreement, we think the Republicans have it right. Gregoire’s plan would allow a simple majority to tap the fund if the governor declares an emergency; Republicans would still require 60 percent support. That’s reasonable, because a meaningful rainy-day fund shouldn’t be easy to tap. If a true emergency exists, a supermajority vote won’t be hard to muster.
Some Democrats think a constitutional amendment is either a gimmick or overkill. We doubt most taxpayers would agree. Institutional pressures to launch new spending programs or enhance existing ones can be overwhelming. Unless saving is required, it’s not likely to happen.
Local governments – counties, cities, school districts – maintain reserve funds for unforeseen events, just as families should. The state should be no different. It’s the prudent, responsible thing to do.
For legislative Democrats, it’s smart politics, too.
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