Washington Governor Boosts Infrastructure, Aviation

0:00It's April 1st, Vancouver News, today starts now, AI-powered and ready. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed a new transportation budget that pumps $300 million into highway and bridge preservation, plus $40 million from leftover funds. This builds on his push for infrastructure in his first term, including $65 million in federal cash for flood repairs and $45 million in state loans for local fixes. About 600 miles of roads paved this summer, and a key overpass replacement in Moses Lake. He also greenlit over $1,300 million in bonds through Senate Bill 6225, spread over six years. 800 million frees up money for ongoing projects, without hiking taxes, repaid by gas and vehicle fees. Lawmakers fought over it, Senate passed easy, house needed last-minute tweaks for the 60% vote. Ferguson called it a historic win, saying the state must keep investing to deliver reliable roads.

1:00No new funds were hybrid fairies, though. His billion dollar asked for three vessels got shot down early. On the aviation side, he signed a bill repealing a luxury aircraft surtax, but jacking up fuel taxes by seven cents a gallon to 25 cents, starting November 1st. Plain registration fees doubled to $30, excise taxes climbed from $20 to $8,000 max, and even commercial drones face a one. $120 hit from next year. This keeps Washington's roads rolling smooth while balancing the budget books. More moves coming on operating funds tomorrow.