Thread by @MelissaSantos1

@GovInslee seemed to just say that lawmakers will not reach a deal on a transportation package this year. He said he will continue to work on it while the Legislature is not in session. Here's background on what the sticking points have been: crosscut.com/politics/2021/… #waleg

Just spoke to Senate Transpo Chair Steve Hobbs. He thinks a special session for a transpo package -- and for climate bills -- is possible.
He said while the governor wants his cap-and-trade and low carbon fuel standard bills, "We really want a transportation package." #waleg

Hobbs also said: "If I had to click on a relationship button on Facebook on this, it would be, 'it’s complicated.'" But he acknowledge time is running out to reach a deal on carbon pricing + transportation revenue. #waleg

House Transportation Chair Jake Fey, D-Tacoma, meanwhile, seems to agree with @GovInslee assessment that a deal on a transportation package isn't happening. "Given that it's Thursday and the Senate hasn't sent us anything looks like the governor is stating the obvious." #waleg

Session is scheduled to adjourn on Sunday, so yeah, Thursday doesn't leave a lot of time for lawmakers to reach a deal on a $16 billion or more transportation package. But weirder things have happened in #waleg.

Hobbs seemed to think there's a slight possibility a deal could be reached by Sunday, too -- negating the need for a special session -- but acknowledged the likelihood is dwindling. #waleg