Is a Budget Deal Imminent? It May Come Just as Furlough Notices Go Out

Gov. Inslee says negotiators have reached a "breakthrough" in the battle overthe Washington state budget. But just what is it?

Inslee said late Monday negotiations took a turn for the better and the legislature has apparently figured out a way to appropriate another $1 billion for schools without slashing social services.

No legislators joined Inslee at his press conference, but opposing leaders in the GOP did not disagree or downplay the governor's optimism.

While no details were released, the Democrat-controlled state house has been insisting any funding to meet the state's legally-mandated education requirements not come at the expense of social services. Also, Democrats wanted to close what they called dozens of tax "loopholes" to raise more revenue. Both moves were largely opposed by the GOP-controlled state senate.