Northwest
Audit: Unemployment fraud likely higher than $647 million
The auditor’s office indicated that the total amount stolen in Washington state could exceed $1 billion.
Northwest
State Senate approves expansion of low-income tax credit
The bill passed the Democratic-led chamber on a bipartisan 47-2 vote and now heads back to the House.
Northwest
Officials seek new tools to combat invasive giant hornets
One new rule would allow the state to declare an “infested site” for 20 meters around a nest.
Northwest
Two people survive small plane crash near San Juan Island
The two on board managed to make it back to shore of Blakley Island.
Northwest
Whatcom County: Breastfeeding in public is not indecent
It’s a new exception to the law forbidding “any female to expose or permit public display of her…
Northwest
Prosecutors seek 5-year term for ex-leader of neo-Nazi group
Another man, Kaleb Cole, whose weapons were seized in Arlington, is due to face trial in September.
Local News
McCoy receives an overdue tribute from Senate colleagues
The former lawmaker was praised as a “quiet giant” for his work on education, environment and tribal issues.
Northwest
Washington Legislature approves Juneteenth as state holiday
The measure passed the Senate on a bipartisan 47-1 vote and now heads to Gov. Jay Inslee.
Northwest
3 light-rail stations, including Northgate, to open Oct. 2
They will be the newest extension of Sound Transit’s Link system, which will eventually reach Snohomish County.
Northwest
Gov. Inslee alters criteria for COVID-19 reopening phases
Counties must now fail both metrics for case counts and hospitalizations in order to move back a phase.
Northwest
One year since Skagit Valley COVID-19 superspreader event
The choir rehearsal became one of the most pivotal transmission episodes in understanding the virus.
Northwest
Senate approves bill requiring ‘just cause’ eviction
Currently, landlords can end month-to-month leases with 20 days’ notice. The bill now goes to the House.
Local News
Inslee to announce possible new COVID restrictions Monday
At a news conference Thursday the governor said “we’ve let our guard down to some degree.”
Northwest
Feds halt sale of historic-archives building in Seattle
Approval for the sale has been withdrawn. It would have resulted in records being sent to other states.
Northwest
Washington Legislature revises 3-strikes sentencing law
As many as 114 people serving life without parole will be eligible for resentencing.
Northwest
Snow falling in the Cascades raises avalanche concerns
Current weather conditions are shaping up to be just as dangerous as the winter season, officials said.
Northwest
Gov. Inslee signs bill to restore voting rights to parolees
The sponsor of the bill was Rep. Tarra Simmons, who was convicted of assault and of drug and…
Northwest
Neo-Nazi pleads guilty in journalist threat case
The other defendant, Kaleb Cole, has pleaded not guilty and is due to face trial in September.
Northwest
Senate approves ban on Native American mascots at schools
The bill will go back to the House for approval.
Northwest
State Senate OKs restrictions on police tactics and gear
Republicans objected, saying it would endanger officers and the public alike.