Northwest
Businesses can’t require microchip implants for workers under new WA law
Injected under the skin, usually between the thumb and index finger, microchip implants can serve as identification or…
Latest Northwest
Local News
After marathon debate, WA House advances income tax
Democrats withstood around-the-clock resistance from Republicans, sending the “millionaires’ tax” back to the Senate for agreement and then…
Local News
New version of income tax bill gets WA governor’s blessing
The latest draft would further expand a tax credit for working families and make other significant changes.
Local News
Automated license plate reader regulations close to becoming WA law
The camera technology has stoked privacy concerns. A bill nearing final approval in the Legislature mandates when data…
Northwest
Cigarette tax hike still in play as WA legislative session wanes
The proposal would increase the per-pack tax from about $3 to $5 and recalibrate taxes on other nicotine…
Northwest
For Rivian and Lucid, path finally emerges for direct-to-consumer car sales in WA
Legislation in the state Senate would put the companies on the same footing as Tesla. It has support…
Northwest
WA lawmakers target immigrant detention center with tax, fine and oversight bills
The legislation is Democrats’ latest attempt to apply greater pressure and scrutiny to the Tacoma facility.
Northwest
State’s drunk driving limit will not be lowered this year
The state Senate approved a bill to drop it to 0.05%, but it failed to advance out of…
Northwest
Why WA child care program could bear brunt of budget cuts
Democratic budget writers want to reduce state reimbursements for providers, based on how often children attend day care.
Northwest
$1B borrowing plan to buy new ferries sinks in Legislature
House and Senate spending plans released Monday would also push off conversion of diesel boats to battery power.
Northwest
More bills falter as time dwindles for Washington Legislature
The third deadline in as many weeks came Tuesday in the Washington Legislature. It meant the end of…
Northwest
Washington state Senate approves tax on personal income over $1M
The bill will next go to the House, as Gov. Bob Ferguson is indicating he’d like to see…
Northwest
Stricter standards for Washington sheriffs approved in state Senate
A lead law enforcement group and Republicans are opposed. The bill would provide a way for the state…
Northwest
Tighter rules for challenges to voter registrations clear WA House
A spike in challenges by conservatives is fueling Democrats’ desire to make changes that will curtail frivolous claims.…
Northwest
WA income tax on higher earners clears first legislative hurdle
Democrats rejected GOP amendments before pushing their tax on millionaires through a Senate committee. The bill was revised…
Northwest
WA Senate OKs guardrails for license plate readers
The legislation passed Wednesday mandates that reader data be deleted after 21 days and says it can’t be…
Northwest
Washington tribes could get more say in management of state logging lands
A bill to add two tribal representatives to the Board of Natural Resources is awaiting a Senate vote.…
Northwest
The bills that didn’t survive the WA Legislature’s first major deadline
A 60-day legislative session can be a cruel thing if you’re hoping to see a bill passed.
Northwest
Ferguson rejects WA lawmakers’ initial crack at income tax legislation
The Democratic proposal targets household earnings over $1 million.
Northwest
WA Senate leader explains dim outlook for a new tax on big businesses
Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen previously backed the payroll tax, but suggests there’s no political path for it.…