VIDEO | Rep. Joshua Penner explains “NO” vote as House Appropriations Committee passes supplemental budget
Rep. Joshua Penner, R-Orting, an assistant ranking member on the House Appropriations Committee, shared his final remarks during the committee executive session on Feb. 25, 2026. While the committee ultimately voted to pass the proposed supplemental operating budget, Penner strongly opposed it and explained why he could not support it in its current form.
He emphasized that while passing a budget is a fundamental duty of the legislature, this particular proposal fails to represent the needs of all Washingtonians. A primary concern for Penner is the lack of bipartisan cooperation throughout the document’s development. He pointed out that the voices and ideas of 40% of the state’s population, represented by the minority caucus, were largely excluded from the process.
Beyond the lack of collaboration, Penner highlighted specific fiscal decisions that he finds troubling. He criticized the allocation of $2 million away from the Dan Thompson Fund, a resource specifically dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. He argued that shifting these funds into the general fund effectively removes support from vulnerable residents who cannot advocate for themselves.
He also voiced frustration regarding the $42 million included in the budget for lawsuit settlements involving the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). He views these high costs as a symptom of systemic issues that have not been adequately addressed.
Following the committee’s vote to advance the budget, Penner continues to call for a more inclusive and responsible fiscal policy that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all citizens.
