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health , environment and public schools . Shortly after those budgets received their initial votes , the state ’ s first death from COVID-19 was reported .
Lerch told the legislators the economic effects of the virus were uncertain . The budgets passed by the House and Senate were “ substantially obsolete ,” Ormsby said . “ This is a wake-up call .” — Jim Camden , The Spokesman-Review , March 11
But as lawmakers prepare to adjourn Thursday , the rapidly worsening coronavirus outbreak is overshadowing the scorecard of their collective accomplishments and making their final hours together among the session ’ s most important .
Concern is growing that the economy will slow and stall in the next few months as major events are canceled , schools are closed and residents reduce their activities to avoid contracting the virus . Legislators are working to ensure policies are in place and enough money is available for the state ’ s response , so Gov . Jay Inslee will not need to call them back into action before next January . — Jerry Cornfield , The Herald , March 11 special edition 2020 9