Christine Gregoire in 2011 Governor's State of the State speeches
On Government Reform:
Transform to 21st-century government that can't do it all
This year, amid the worst economic climate in eight decades, our challenge is to actually transform Washington State government. I think each of you will find in the weeks ahead our budget crisis leaves us no other option.
It will take tough, but wise decisions. I've offered a path forward. Here it is:- We must create a stable, financially secure path for our future;
- We must recognize government cannot do it all; and
- We must transform government into a leaner,
21st century organization that is more effective and efficient.
This session is not just about getting us through this crisis.
It's also about setting our state on a trajectory that ensures a strong financial foundation for our kids and grandkids. This is a budget and agenda that build the platform for better service and recovery in the years to come.
Source: 2011 Washington State of the State Address
Jan 11, 2011
On Health Care:
10-year goal: Save $26B and increase quality of care
In the past decade our health care costs doubled to more than $5 billion. Every dollar we spend on health care means we have one fewer dollar to educate our children.I am proposing we partner with the Center of Innovation at the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services to provide real health care reform as a state. We should set a goal: Keep inflation at 4 percent over the next 10 years. We can save $26 billion while increasing the quality of care.
Source: 2011 Washington State of the State Address
Jan 11, 2011
On Social Security:
End automatic benefit increases in state retirement programs
I am proposing we repeal a 1995 law that gave automatic benefit increases to retirees in the old PERS 1 and TRS 1 pension plans. The pension law was well intended but it carries a staggering price tag and we simply cannot afford it. Pension reform will
save $2 billion over the next four years and more than $11 billion during the next 25 years.I have looked at every state program and asked if it can be provided by others, if users should pay for it or if there are better ways to deliver the service.
Source: 2011 Washington State of the State Address
Jan 11, 2011
Page last updated: Dec 04, 2018