Washingtonians have demonstrated tremendous resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses have responded to unprecedented disruption by transforming operations and reimagining the workplace. The underlying strength, diversity, and innovation of our state economy are evident and state revenue projections through 2025 now exceed pre-pandemic expectations by an astounding $8.6 billion.
Despite strong jobs growth, overall employment in Washington is still below the pre-pandemic peak. Employers are facing an alarming shortage of qualified talent while also shouldering the burden of state-imposed costs, inflation-related costs, and supply chain disruptions. Additionally, the pandemic exposed weaknesses in Washington’s transportation and other infrastructure, and our state continues to struggle with crises in educational equity and credential attainment.
During the 2022 legislative session, the Washington Roundtable will focus on supporting economic recovery, opportunity, and prosperity statewide. This includes advocating for prudent state fiscal policy, state transportation investment, an evidence-based approach to reduce chronic homelessness, and demonstrable progress toward ensuring Washington students are prepared to succeed in our state’s economy and future careers. Read more about our priorities in our 2022 Policy Agenda.