Fewer people than expected are using state services, a state panel says, providing a boost for lawmakers struggling to fill a roughly $1.5 billion shortfall.

Bottom line: The state budget is likely to see more than a $200 million windfall once all the numbers are crunched, according to Marty Brown, the governor's budget director.

While that's not a lot of money compared to the budget shortfall, it could have a big impact on the Legislature's thinking when it comes to the governor's earlier proposal of asking voters to approve a half-cent increase in the state sales tax to raise $500 million for the current two-year budget.

The Washington State Caseload Forecast Council, which met this morning, said the biggest driver in the caseload forecast is fewer students than expected enrolling in public schools and fewer people than expected using state health-care services for the poor.

More later.