This week the Washington State Legislature convened for a 30-day special session.

Since the Legislature adjourned two weeks ago little progress has been made towards a final budget. Budget writers for each chamber did meet a few times since Sine Die, but no deal was reached. The differences between the three-corners (i.e. Governor, Senate and House) remain vast as legislators begin this next phase in the process.

Yesterday, both the Senate and the House convened to caucus. The Governor and the Senate Majority Coalition each held press conferences which echoed what has been in the atmosphere since Sine Die, no significant progress has been made; Though both shared their intention to work out a final budget within the 30-day special session.

Not much is expected this week or even next week. No floor votes are scheduled this week, but a few committees are meeting.

One bit of news is a revised special session agenda for the Governor. Governor Inslee announced a narrower focus for the next 30-days than the wide open one he declared at the end of the regular session. The top three priorities for the Governor include: a budget compromise, a new transportation revenue package, and tougher drunk driving legislation.  The Governor still hopes that action will be taken on the DREAM Act and the Reproductive Parity Act.

The 30-day special session is set to end on June 12. If a budget compromise is not reached another special session will be called.