HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026_06_16 EHuriaux_OID BudgetFrom:Kapuscinski, Michael S (DOH)
Subject:Update from the Office of Infectious Disease about our budget and funding outlook
Date:Tuesday, June 16, 2026 8:11:54 AM
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Dear Office of Infectious Disease Partners,
I am writing to provide an update about the Office of Infectious Disease’s (OID) budget and
funding outlook. Many contract partners have received level funding for several years, and we
have heard requests for funding increases. We understand the challenges that rising costs
create for programs and recognize the critical work you do in communities across
Washington. While we would like to provide additional funding, we cannot do so at this time.
The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is experiencing significant budget
reductions. As you may know:
Federal funding to DOH has been flat or reduced for most programs across the agency,
including those within OID.
Washington State is facing a budget shortfall. As a result, the Legislature significantly
reduced funding for the public health system beginning July 1, 2026.
These federal and state funding impacts have resulted in staff layoffs across DOH,
including within OID.
Last July, OID was required to reduce funding for many programs. We are grateful that
we have not had to implement additional program reductions for the upcoming budget
year beginning July 1, 2026.
For all Partners – What this means for your contract with OID:
There are currently no across-the-board reductions to OID contracts.
However, OID may need to implement additional cost-containment measures in the
future.
Internal OID workgroups are identifying guiding values, assessing current spending, and
evaluating the potential impacts of future reductions.
As part of this process, OID is monitoring underspent funds more closely than in
previous years. We strongly encourage contractors to closely track spending and
work to fully utilize contract funds by the end of each fiscal year.
As we did in November 2025, OID will host another contractor call in September 2026 (exact
date coming soon). During this call, we will provide budget updates and share information
regarding any changes to contracting or invoicing processes.
Thank you for your continued commitment to improving health across Washington State.
While these financial shifts are difficult, we remain dedicated to working with you to protect
essential services and support our communities.
Emalie
Emalie Huriaux, MPH (em-uh-LEE ur-EE-o)
Pronouns: she/her
Acting Director
Office of Infectious Disease
Division of Disease Control & Health Statistics
Washington State Department of Health
Emalie.Huriaux@doh.wa.gov
360-236-2315 | www.doh.wa.gov
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