With the state facing a multi-billion dollar budget gap, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee has ordered state agencies to freeze “most non-discretionary and non-essential” hiring, service contracts, purchasing and travel.

Washington Governor Jay Inslee says he is implementing a hiring and spending freeze as the state faces a “significant operating budget deficit."

Reacting to Washington’s looming budget shortfall, Gov. Jay Inslee on Monday directed state agencies to freeze nonessential hiring. Inslee also issued a pause on noncritical service contracts, travel and spending on equipment and goods. Filling essential vacancies will still be allowed, as will spending on crucial services.