Major Spending Increases and Outcomes Over the Past Decade

Over the past decade, Washington state revenues have increased 99%,1-2 while state spending has increased 114%. 3

This spending occurred in two waves.

The first wave, before the 2019-21 biennium, was focused on K-12 education.

The second wave, after the 2019-21 biennium, was focused on social services (i.e. homeless services).

What did it pay for?

Did Washington achieve better learning and readiness for students?

Did Washington provide improved circumstances for unhoused people?

Click below to read more about outcomes in each spending category.