OLYMPIA -- Both chambers are likely to be busy today trying to pass bills sent them by the other house. The bell tolls for all non-budget bills Tuesday at 5 p.m., and there's a boat load in the queue.

Meanwhile, freshman Democrats in the House are introducing a bill to close two state tax exemptions -- one that affects banks and another that allows non-Washington shoppers to avoid the state's sales tax when buying items here. The money would be dedicated to reducing class sizes in kindergarten through Grade 3, said Rep. Andy Billig, D-Spokane, a co-sponsor.

These were among the "loopholes" that protesters targeted last week during the demonstrations. Prospects for passage with less than two weeks remaining in the regular session? Not good, considering they'd need a two-thirds vote.

Prospects for getting at least a floor vote that could used in campaigns next year? Somewhat better, because both sides might like to score  political points with this

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