Same-sex couples can register their relationship with the state. This will gain them a few rights now denied them such as visiting a partner in the hospital and administering a partner’s estate should that person die. The new law also covers heterosexual couples in which one partner is at least 62 years old.
RELAX YOUR GRIP
Drivers can keep the studded tires on their vehicles year-round, but only if the studs can be retracted and kept out of contact with the road surface between April and November.
WAIT YOUR TURN
Drivers won’t get away with cutting in line at ferry terminals; they’ll get a ticket, a $101 fine and, worst of all, be sent to the end of the line.
LIONS AND TIGERS AND BEARS? NO WAY
Owning wild animals such as snakes, crocodiles, wolves and monkeys will be outlawed. If you own one now, you can keep them until they die.
OFFICIALLY OURS
Joining the honor roll of state symbols are the Pacific chorus frog as amphibian, the Lady Washington as ship and the Walla Walla sweet onion as vegetable.
GIVE A BUCK
Looking for an easy way to contribute to state parks? Here’s a new one – add a few bucks with your annual payment for car tab fees.
PITCH IN
Aluminum cans and glass bottles must be given a place of their own at festivals, fairs and ball parks where they can be smashed – for recycling of course – not trashed.
CRIME AND PUNISHMENT
Car thieves face greater punishment with each conviction. Adult offenders can end up in state prison on the third offense; it takes seven under existing law.
Denying someone a job or access to housing because that person is a veteran will no longer simply be wrong; it will be illegal discrimination.
DON’T ASK
Reporters will not be revealing their sources in the course of a local or state legal proceeding. This state-crafted shield law doesn’t extend into federal court matters, however.
Information on all laws is available at www.leg.wa.gov or www.washington votes.org.
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