State lawmakers approve budget to avoid government shutdown

capitolSEATTLE -- After a long and drawn out special session, Washington state lawmakers finally approved the state operating budget for 2013-15.

“I am pleased the Senate passed the operating budget, which keeps us on track to have a budget in place by the start of the new biennium on Monday," Gov. Jay Inslee said. “I expect the House to act quickly and pass it as well, so it can be sent to my office."

The House acted quickly and signed the budget shortly before 7 p.m. Friday.

The governor is expected to sign the budget by Sunday, the Seattle Times reported.