Gov. Gary Locke’s budget and governmental priorities received a thumbs up from small business owners at the annual Small Business Day at the Capitol event, co-sponsored by the NFIB/Washington and the Independent Business Association.

After outlining the governor’s plan, Wolfgang Opitz, assistant director for the state Office of Financial Management, brought more than 100 small-business owners to their feet in appreciation over the commitment of no new or increased taxes, and a plan to better prioritize the services and operations of government.