Good news for state budget writers - today's revenue forecast has further increased projected revenue for the current and next budget by a combined $231 million for a total increase of more than $2 billion for 2013-15.

While saying we don't want to be like the other Washington (D.C.), Washington state policy makers appear to have taken a page out of the Congressional playbook by utilizing retroactive tax policy.

The real sticking point in Washington state continues to be whether to increase taxes despite the fact state revenues are currently projected to increase by $2 billion for the 2013-15 biennium (and may increase more at next week's Revenue Forecast).

While voters re-affirmed the standalone death tax, it is doubtful they meant to give the Legislature a green light to embark down the road of retroactive tax changes, especially for people no longer around to defend themselves due to their death.

While there are rumors that lawmakers may wait for the June 18 Revenue Forecast to see if the recent improvement in state economic activity can help bridge the budget divide, state law may make waiting that long a bit tricky.