OLYMPIA - The Legislature's job of closing the state's $1.5 billion budget shortfall got a little easier on Friday with news of at least a $200 million windfall due to reduced demands for state services.

But with 27 days left in the regular session, it remains unclear how lawmakers ultimately will close the budget gap.

The Legislature generally doesn't come out with a proposed budget until after the state forecast of future tax collections in February. The forecast, to be released Thursday, will tell lawmakers if they have more or less money to spend than expected, or the same amount.

Washington is one of a handful of states, including California and New York, facing a budget shortfall, according to a December report by the National Conference of State Legislatures. A year ago, 15 states reported shortfalls.

House Democrats are expected to release their budget proposal not long after the forecast, but no date has been set. The Senate is supposed to release its budget after the House this year.