Veterans of Olympia budget sessions know that the heaviest lifting doesn’t begin until the spring revenue forecast — usually issued in March. That forecast lets lawmakers know the how the results of the recent holiday shopping season and the most recent economic data will affect the amount they have to spend (or this year, cut). Showing the seriousness of the budget situation, the spring forecast has been moved up one month to February 19 at 4:30 pm. It is widely expected that the budget gap will increase from the $5.7 billion reflected in the Governor’s budget proposal. At the same time, the state’s portion of a federal stimulus package should be clearer. One thing is certain, ratings for TVW — which carries forecast council meetings live — will never be better.