Local News
‘Government edit’? Two lawsuits challenge state’s description of WA income tax measure
At issue are 15 words that will appear on ballots describing the financial consequences of overturning the tax.
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WA has paid unemployment to more than 100 striking workers
The state has paid out over half a million dollars in unemployment benefits to workers during labor disputes…
Northwest
Battle ramps up over WA ballot measure to bar transgender students from girls’ sports
Opponents officially kicked off their campaign this week, with heavy backing from unions and the ACLU. They’re also…
Northwest
Environment, climate bills passed and failed in legislative session
With just three more sessions scheduled before state law mandates greenhouse gas emissions in Washington be at least…
Northwest
WA schools chief seeks changes after teacher sexual misconduct reporting
The changes, which would expand the state’s investigatory abilities, still need approval from the governor-appointed Professional Educator Standards…
Northwest
How WA’s controversial cap on rent hikes has been enforced
A year into Washington’s limit on residential rent increases, the state has yet to collect a cent in…
Northwest
Only a fraction of WA’s state flood aid has made it to victims
Gov. Bob Ferguson points to narrow qualifications that limit those who qualify. The funding is separate from federal…
Northwest
Judge blocks Washington’s new sheriff standards law
Four eastern Washington sheriffs brought the emergency challenge to the law, raising constitutional concerns.
Northwest
Tulalips join tribes calling for removal of Snake River dams
A coalition of Northwest tribal leaders told Congress the move will help restore salmon runs.
Northwest
‘Blue envelopes’ seek to reduce WA traffic stop risks for neurodivergent drivers
Traffic stops can be anxiety-inducing encounters, especially for people with autism.
Local News
WA legislative session ends with budgets passed and a dash of drama
Democrats’ income tax bill dominated much of the 60 days. A host of unsolved issues is left lingering…
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…
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
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…
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.
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
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
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…