And they’re out of here…

Lawmakers cut a deal on staff unionization, budgets, then exit with sparkles

The Legislature adjourned Thursday evening at an unusually early and civilized hour. In past years, the final hours of the session featured some kind of interesting dumpster fire that pushed lawmakers up against the midnight deadline. This year, there was plenty of time for pomp, circumstance, and extended farewells to departing members. 

That’s partly because much of the controversial stuff died or passed earlier in the process, and partly because the Democratic majorities on both sides did better than usual on clock management. 

Many folks in and around the Legislature observe adjournment sine die¹ as “Sparkle Die” with flashy attire and the occasional tiara. Senate Floor Leader Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, who is the chief clock manager in the Senate, sported a crown as he made the motion to send lawmakers home until a new Legislature convenes next year. 

Here’s a look at a couple of substantive things that happened on the final day.