Washington in Focus

Weekend Edition | Inslee's Final State of the State & New Governor Ferguson Jan 18, 2025

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Legislature’s Republican leadership found itself at a loss for words during a Wednesday press conference following Gov. Bob Ferguson’s inaugural address. House Minority Leader Rep. Drew Stokesbary, R-Auburn, opened the media availability along with Senate Minority Leader John Braun, R-Centralia, and other party heads. While Republicans have anxiously awaited Ferguson’s arrival as governor, many were surprised by his seemingly overlapping priorities. “You know, this was a really interesting speech, and I actually am trying to figure out exactly how to respond,” Stokesbary said. “I think that Gov. Ferguson’s speech looked a lot more like mine than it did Gov. Inslee’s.”

Inslee’s Final State of the State Address Touts Increased State Spending Since 2013 Jan 17, 2025

(The Center Square) – In his final State of the State address to the Legislature, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee touted the enormous increase in state spending on various programs and services since he took office, while imploring lawmakers not to reduce spending as they write the upcoming biennial budget. The state's two-year operating budget was roughly $38 billion when Inslee took office in 2013. Since then the budget has increased to $75.5 billion, though it is facing a multibillion deficit for the 2025-2027 biennium despite record revenue levels.

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Bob Ferguson Sworn in as Washington Governor, Delivers Inaugural Address Jan 16, 2025

(The Center Square) – A day after outgoing three-term Gov. Jay Inslee delivered his final State of the State address, Bob Ferguson was sworn in as the state’s 24th governor on Wednesday. Ferguson has served as the state attorney general since 2013 and was a member of the King County Council before that. Following the swearing-in of other statewide executives, Ferguson took the oath of office administered by Washington Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra Stephens. He began his midday speech before a joint legislative session in the House of Representatives.

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Spokane Split Over Siting Homeless Services as More Prepare to Open Next Month Jan 15, 2025

(The Center Square) – Spokane opened a new medical respite facility on Monday as part of its scattered-site homeless model, sparking support and criticisms from the city council around its sudden arrival. The Lilac City started leveraging the model in October as it decommissioned the Trent Resource and Assistance Center. The Trent Shelter once housed hundreds of individuals, but its closure left many without a roof overhead as temperatures dropped and the new model lagged.

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Seattle City Council Member Proposes Limits to Blast Ball Use for Crowd Control Jan 15, 2025

(The Center Square) – Seattle City Councilmember Cathy Moore has announced proposed reforms to limit the Seattle Police Department’s use of blast balls for crowd control. Blast balls are rubber devices that create a loud sound and bright flash, and can also contain tear gas. Moore’s reforms would be in the form of amendments for proposed Council Bill 120916, which is currently sitting in the Public Safety Committee. The bill would help the Seattle Police Department be in full compliance with a preliminary injunction regarding the department’s crowd control measures.

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Critic: Washington Dept. Of Ecology Releasing ‘Out of Date’ Emissions Data on Climate Goals Jan 10, 2025

(The Center Square) – Newly released emissions data from the Washington State Department of Ecology shows the state is behind on climate goals set by the administration of outgoing Gov. Jay Inslee. According to a Monday news release from the Department of Ecology, “total state greenhouse gas emissions dipped 13.8% in 2020, falling below the legal limit for that year. Emissions rose 8.8% in 2021 but stayed below 2019 levels.” However, according to state law, “By December 31st of each even-numbered year beginning in 2010, the department [Ecology] and the department of commerce shall report … greenhouse gases for the preceding two years.”

Washington Democrats Leak $15 Billion Tax Increase Plans Jan 03, 2025

(The Center Square) – Senate Democrats are asking their peers to help “spread that tax policy love around” as they hope to close a $16 billion shortfall with new taxes in a leaked email on Friday. Sen. Noel Frame, D-Seattle, sent the message just days after Gov. Jay Inslee announced a budget shortfall of upwards of $16 billion over the next four years. While he proposed billions in tax increases of his own last Tuesday, Frame’s email included several others on Friday. Inslee’s solution included a new wealth tax, which he estimates could generate over $10 billion over four years and a temporary 20% surcharge for businesses marking over $1 million annually until increasing all business and occupation, or B&O, tax rates by 10% in 2027. Frame’s email included seven other “revenue options,” or taxes, to keep the Legislature afloat at the expense of the taxpayer. The message also included slides from Democrats on what to avoid when talking about taxes to avoid upsetting their constituency.

Washington 2024 Year in Review: AG's Office Accusations, Budget Deficits, & More Dec 26, 2024

The Center Square's Washington 2024 Year in Review including accusations of the AG's office using unethical practices, citizen led election initiatives, growing budget deficits, & more. Keep up with all of the Washington news in 2025 at The Center Square: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington

Inslee Proposes Billions in New Taxes on Way Out of Office Dec 20, 2024

(The Center Square) – When Gov. Jay Inslee took office in 2013 after stating in the 2012 election race that new taxes weren’t “the right direction," the state Legislature approved a $38.4 billion budget for the biennium. With less than a month before stepping down from office, Inslee is proposing a $78.8 billion operating budget that comes with $4 billion in new taxes to fund it, including a wealth tax. The approach is in contrast with how the Legislature responded to a massive budget deficit during the Great Recession, when lawmakers reduced spending by $11 billion in response to a significant loss of revenue. At Tuesday morning's budget news conference, Inslee said that “they did things that leaders sometimes would do in difficult times, particularly during the recession,” and though his budget involves $2 billion in delayed spending, he said the Great Recession-era cuts to services such as mental health has created “a problem we've been trying to dig ourselves out of for 12 years now.”

King County Executive Doubles Down on Housing-First Approach to Homelessness Dec 13, 2024

(The Center Square) – Exiting King County Executive Dow Constantine is doubling down on a housing-first approach to addressing the homelessness crisis in a recent interview with ChangeWA. ChangeWA, a non-partisan organization, released an interview it had with Constantine on Wednesday. In the interview, Constantine showed continued support for the region’s continued housing-first approach, despite statistics showing no signs of improvements to the crisis. In 2015 Constantine and then-Seattle Mayor Ed Murray declared homelessness an emergency facing the region. That year, the county’s federally mandated Point-in-Time Count tallied 10,047 homeless people across the county. That has increased 63% to an all-time high of 16,385 unhoused people this year.

Gov. Inslee Imposes Spending Freeze to Deal With $10B-$12B Operating Budget Gap Dec 06, 2024

(The Center Square) – Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee is calling for a freeze on hiring, services contracts, goods and equipment purchases, and travel to deal with a projected operating budget shortfall between $10 billion and $12 billion over the next four years. The shortfall exists despite the state's record $72 billion budget. “Effective December 2, 2024, for all agencies under my direction and control, I am directing a freeze on the following: (1) hiring not related to public safety or other non-discretionary activities as listed below, (2) execution of non-essential services contracts, (3) discretionary purchasing of goods and equipment, and (4) travel,” Inslee wrote in a directive to his executive and small cabinet agency directors.

The Driver Behind Washington State’s Budget Shortfall Nov 26, 2024

Earlier this month, state officials reported that the operating budget faces a $10-12 billion deficit over the next four years. Unlike during the Great Recession, the budget deficit isn’t due to a decline in revenue, as many of the state’s tax collections are at record levels while other new taxes have been imposed. Although the state Economic and Revenue Forecast Council recently lowered expected revenue for the current and next biennium by $270 million, the state Department of Revenue reports that all state taxes generated $35.4 billion for the fiscal year 2023, a 5.8% increase from the 2022 fiscal year. In that timeframe, the state sales tax revenue increased by 6.2%, while revenue from that has doubled since 2014, from $8 billion to almost $16 billion.

WSU’s $5 Million Contract With It Company May Have Violated State Law Nov 22, 2024

Washington State University earlier this year signed a $5 million contract with Carahsoft, an IT contractor that is currently under investigation by the FBI for price fixing and overbilling government contracts, according to public documents. One critic is arguing that the contract violates state law, a claim bolstered by internal communication within the State Attorney General's Office. The contract is related to a public police use of force database project overseen by the AGO under authorization of a 2021 state law. Signed in June, the contract has Carahsoft work as a subcontractor after IBM, which was originally intended to be part of the project, withdrew during contract negotiations over stipulations regarding intellectual property.

Seattle City Economists: Proposed 2% Capital Gains Tax Could Spur Wealth Exodus Nov 15, 2024

Seattle officials worry that implementing a local capital gains tax would coax wealthy residents to change their home addresses. Seattle City Councilmember Cathy Moore is proposing a local 2% capital gains excise tax that would be applicable to non-retirement financial gains over $250,000. However, the tax is based on where a taxpayer's permanent residence is located, which means residents with multiple Washington addresses can potentially avoid the tax altogether.

WA GOP Says AG ‘Weaponized’ Ballot Impact Statements on Initiatives Nov 08, 2024

Supporters of the four initiatives on Tuesday’s general election ballot in Washington are regrouping after three of the four went down to defeat. One the measures, I-2066, to ensure natural gas remains an energy choice is leading by about 75,000 votes, but with more than 780,000 ballots not yet to be added to the statewide total, neither side is declaring victory or defeat. Washington State Republican Party Chair Jim Walsh, who sponsored the initiatives, told The Center Square on Thursday that state Republicans believe ballot statements on the initiatives worked to their disadvantage.

FBI Drop Box Arson Investigation Continues as WA Law Enforcement Step up Patrols Nov 01, 2024

The FBI continues to investigate Monday’s arson that destroyed hundreds of election ballots inside a Vancouver, Wash., drop box. An incendiary device was also dropped next to a Portland drop box, but fire suppression built into the box put out the flames before any major damage. Multnomah County election officials reported only three ballots were damaged. Joni McAnally, communications specialist at the Clark County Manager's Office, told The Center Square via email that the Vancouver drop box was also equipped with fire suppression, “but it did not work as it should have."

WA Initiative Backers Say AG’s ‘One-Sided’ Language Deceiving Voters, Polling Oct 25, 2024

Recently released polling on the Washington initiatives to the ballot indicates voters may not be in the mood to support three of the four measures. Backers of the initiatives aren't swayed by the results, adding that language included by Attorney General Bob Ferguson paints a partisan pall over the measures. The SurveyUSA poll was conducted online Oct. 9-14 and was sponsored by The Seattle Times, KING 5 and the University of Washington’s Center for an Informed Public.

WA GOP Chair: Cities Opposed to Initiatives Motivated by Potential Loss of Revenue Oct 17, 2024

A number of Washington cities have approved declarations publicly opposing ballot initiatives on next month's ballot, with at least initiative supporter hinting that money is playing a key role in these decisions by various city councils. The four initiatives are as follows: Business Industry Association of Washington-sponsored Initiative 2066 would repeal provisions of a new state law aimed at hastening Puget Sound Energy’s transition away from natural gas by prohibiting the state and all local governments from banning, restricting or discouraging the use of natural gas in new or existing homes or commercial buildings.

Top WA Provider for Minor Gender Reassignment Procedures Previously Fined $5 Million Oct 11, 2024

A Washington-based surgery center ranked by a nonprofit among the top in the state for minor gender reassignment surgeries was recently fined $5 million as part of a lawsuit in which the State Attorney General’s Office accused them of deceptive business practices. Within Washington, Lynnwood-based Alderwood Surgical Center performed more than twice as many gender reassignment surgeries on minors than Seattle Children’s Hospital Gender Clinic (50), making it the number one gender reassignment surgery center in the state in terms of total patients. That data is according to the nonprofit Do No Harm and confined to 2019-2023.

Washington Candidates for Secretary of State Clash Over Disinformation, Residency Oct 04, 2024

It’s unclear how many people watched, but there was another contentious election debate Tuesday night in addition to the one between the U.S. vice presidential candidates. The candidates for Washington Secretary of State took part in a debate hosted by the League of Women Voters. Duties of the Secretary of State include supervising state and local elections, filing and verifying initiatives and referendums, registering nonprofits, collecting and preserving the historical records of the state, among others. Incumbent Steve Hobbs is running against challenger Dale Whitaker.

Fact Check: Critics Say Washington's Initiative 2117 Would Cut Transportation Funding Sep 27, 2024

A new report published by Greenline Insights, along with proponents of the Climate Commitment Act, claims that if Initiative 2117 is approved by voters and repeals the law, it would deprive the state of state revenue by $3.9 billion through 2029. According to a press release statement citing the study’s conclusions, the No 2117 campaign argued the initiative “would cut billions in investments in transportation - slashing transit and putting road and bridge projects at risk.” However, CCA revenue is restricted in what kind of transportation projects it can go toward.

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WA’s ‘Environmental Justice’ Needs Complicating Linkage to CA-Quebec Carbon Market Sep 20, 2024

The Climate Commitment Act’s focus on environmental justice may be complicating efforts to link Washington state’s carbon market with the California-Quebec carbon market, a move supporters say will ensure the durability of the cap-and-trade program in the Evergreen State. California and Quebec have expressed interest in linking to Washington’s carbon market. “Linking California’s, Quebec’s and Washington’s carbon markets would enable deeper and faster cuts in climate pollution while creating a more stable, predictable market for all,” said Katelyn Roedner Sutter, the Environmental Defense Fund’s California director. “Three major climate leaders joining forces would create a huge momentum boost for climate action.” One factor complicating linkage efforts is the requirement that CCA funding go to individuals from communities facing environmental harm or health impacts and the organizations serving those communities in what is termed “environmental justice.”

Ferguson, Reichert Exchange Jabs During Gubernatorial Debate Sep 13, 2024

The two candidates to be Washington state's next governor faced off in their first televised debate Tuesday night, trading jabs on a variety of topics, including public safety, the drug crisis, climate change and abortion. State Attorney General Bob Ferguson, a Democrat, and Republican Dave Reichert, a former congressman and the former King County Sheriff wasted no time going at each other from the confines of KING 5 television's studio in Seattle. Both candidates agreed on one thing: that public safety is the top issue this election cycle.

Seattleites Call on City Council to Reject Permanent Tiered Minimum Wage Bill Sep 06, 2024

Members and supporters of the organization Workers Strike Back are calling on the Seattle City Council to oppose a proposed bill to extend the city’s $2.72 tip credit. Seattle’s current minimum wage is $19.97 per hour, but businesses that employ fewer than 500 employees can pay $17.25 per hour if they pay $2.72 per hour toward medical benefits, or if the employee earns $2.72 per hour in tips. That tip credit is set to expire at the end of this year if the city does not act to extend it. Seattle City Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth proposed legislation to amend the city’s minimum wage ordinance to permanently establish the current minimum compensation as the pay standard for small employers.

King County Council Signals Approval of Changes to KCRHA Government Structure Aug 30, 2024

Members of the King County Council are pleased with proposed changes to the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, but note more needs to be done. The King County Council, the City of Seattle and the Sound Cities Association are set to vote on a new five-year interlocal agreement with the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, or KCRHA. The proposed agreement would create a single governing board within KCRHA that is responsible for providing fiscal oversight, setting strategic policy direction, monitoring performance, and ensuring the agency is making progress to fulfill its mission.

Washington Truckers Warn California Emissions Policy Threatens Supply Chain Aug 23, 2024

The state trucking industry is calling on the Legislature and Gov. Jay Inslee to detach Washington state from a California-based electric vehicle program due to a variety of practical and logistical factors that they argue threaten the supply chain system. Under California’s Advanced Clean Trucks program, the trucking industry must progressively transition to zero emissions for medium and heavy-duty trucks. Starting next year, zero emission vehicles must make up 7% of all Class 2b-3 truck and Class 7-8 tractor sales, while Class 4-8 truck sales must be 11% zero emission vehicles.

Outrage Continues Over Quiet Attempt to Invalidate WA Initiatives Aug 16, 2024

Supporters of several citizen initiatives, some already adopted into Washington law, and others to appear on the November ballot are not buying Attorney General Bob Ferguson's transparency claims following last week’s surprise ruling from the State Supreme Court. The ruling went in the favor of initiative supporters, but the surprising part came in the fact those supporters had no idea there was a legal challenge. Brian Heywood with Let’s Go Washington, the group behind the initiatives, and supporters held a protest rally Wednesday in front of the Seattle office of the attorney general, demanding to know why they were not notified of legal challenges that could have invalidated every single one of the initiatives.

Ferguson and Reichert to Face off for Washington Governor in November Aug 09, 2024

Washington state’s long-time attorney general and a former county sheriff will face off to be Washington’s next governor this November. Based on Tuesday night’s initial returns, Democrat Attorney General Bob Ferguson will face former King County Sheriff and U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert, a Republican, in the general election. Initial primary returns showed Ferguson way out in the lead with 49.5% of the vote, with Reichert garnering 27.92% of the vote.

Thurston County Sheriff: Police Pursuit Law Change Sees Fewer Drivers Fleeing Overall Aug 01, 2024

It’s been nearly two months since Initiative 2113 was implemented, restoring vehicular pursuit options for law enforcement agencies across Washington state. I-2113 was passed by the Legislature this session and went into effect on June. 6. The law allows police officers to pursue vehicles when they have reasonable suspicion that the driver has committed a crime and is a threat to public safety. The change came at the urging of police agencies and citizens who raised concerns about community safety with criminals feeling emboldened to flee, knowing officers were prevented from giving chase in many circumstances.

Washington State Agency Defends Giving AGO Investigation of Tort Claim Against It Jul 25, 2024

The Washington state agency tasked with overseeing tort claim investigations and determining whether individuals should be compensated as a result is defending its decision to assign an investigation to the state Attorney General’s Office in which the AGO and its client, Washington State University, are named defendants.

$42 Million Tort Claim Accuses Washington AGO, WSU of Racketeering Jul 18, 2024

A potential subcontractor for a state police use of force database project who has had a long-running feud with the state Attorney General’s Office and Washington State University has now filed a $42 million tort claim that includes accusations of racketeering. Police Strategies CEO Bob Scales was among potential bidders on a request for proposal put out in 2022 by the AGO via Senate Bill 5259. A former King County prosecutor, Scales was also consulted by legislators as the bill advanced through the Legislature, and advised them on similar bills introduced in prior sessions.

Violent Crime Down, Vehicle Theft up in Latest Crime in Washington Report Jul 11, 2024

The annual Crime in Washington 2023 report found that overall violent crime went down, but hate crimes and vehicle thefts increased. The report, with data from 225 law enforcement agencies across the state, was presented Tuesday by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs. The numbers of murders, other violent crimes and property crimes went down compared by 2022, but in many areas of the state, residents are still victimized at alarmingly high rates compared to other states.

Washington Energy Choice Initiative Supporters Turn In 431,000 Voter Signatures Jul 03, 2024

Backers of Initiative 2066 turned in more than 431,000 signatures Tuesday afternoon to the Secretary of State’s Office in Tumwater with the hope of getting the measure to protect energy choices like natural gas and propane on this November's ballot. The Building Industry Association of Washington, Let’s Go Washington and other partners held two news conferences on Tuesday, one at noon in Redmond and another at 3 p.m. at SOS headquarters to deliver signatures.

Initiative to Repeal Cap-And-Trade May Already Be Lowering Carbon Auction Prices Jun 28, 2024

A choice available to voters on the November ballot could already be saving them money at the pump. This November, voters in Washington state will have the final say on Initiative 2117, which would repeal the Climate Commitment Act and prohibit state agencies from implementing a cap-and-trade program. However, there is some evidence that I-2117 may already be impacting the price of carbon credits, given a major decrease in the price of carbon credits during this year’s first two auctions as compared to last year’s auctions.

AGO Draws Criticism for Advising SOS on Ballot Issue Involving AG Ferguson Jun 21, 2024

The Washington State Attorney General’s Office has drawn criticism for providing legal advice to the Secretary of State’s Office regarding a request by Attorney General Bob Ferguson through his campaign attorney to alter the order of candidates on the November election ballot. Last month, two men also named Robert Ferguson filed to run for governor. State election laws has the order of candidates listed on the ballot to be chosen at random. Both Robert Fergusons would have appeared above Attorney General Ferguson on the ballot.

Law Banning Child Marriages in Washington State Now in Effect Jun 14, 2024

Washington is now the 11th state in the country to ban child marriages via a new law that went into effect on June 6 that makes it illegal for anyone under 18 to get married. House Bill 1455, passed by the Legislature this session and signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee in March, took effect on June 6. Prior to the new law, Washington was one of five states with no age requirement to marry. In those other states, children of any age can be legally married with permission from a judge, and 17-year-olds only need parental permission.

Washingtonians Hope for Safer Streets on Eve of Police Pursuit Law Change Jun 07, 2024

Beginning Thursday, June 6, law enforcement officers in Washington can once again pursue someone if they have reasonable suspicion that person has violated any law. Lawmakers amended the stricter policy after a voter initiative was submitted to the legislature and was adopted into law earlier this year. The 2021 law that significantly restricted police came as part of a package of reforms which Republicans and law enforcement say gave criminals the upper hand and led to huge spikes in crime.

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Seattle Police Chief Steps Down Amid Department Issues May 31, 2024

Police Chief Adrian Diaz is stepping down from his role as head of the Seattle Police Department amid an increasing number of issues within the department. Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell announced the move on Wednesday, stating that Diaz “will be stepping aside to work on special assignments.”

Internal Investigation: WSDOT Economist’s Claims He Was Forced Out Not Substantiated May 24, 2024

An investigation by a law firm on behalf of the Washington State Department of Transportation found no merit to most of a former employee’s claims he was pressured to lie about the impact of the Climate Commitment Act on gas prices – and forced out of his job because of it. Scott Smith, a former economist with WSDOT, claims he faced hostility and retaliation after refusing to keep quiet about his calculations last year showing Washington’s cap-and-trade program under the CCA, which went into effect last year, would increase gas prices by 45 to 50 cents per gallon.

Inslee Makes His Case for Voters to Preserve Climate Commitment Act May 17, 2024

Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_9e06a308-1162-11ef-9c04-07a36db3699b.html

KCRHA Makes Its Case Amid Homelessness Crisis, Increased Spending May 10, 2024

With hundreds of millions of tax dollars spent, the King County Regional Homelessness Authority is facing calls for accountability from city officials who look to the semi-governmental organization to get the area's chronic homelessness crisis under control. A senior KCRHA policy director says their efforts are working. KCRHA has served as the organization responsible for coordinating funding and services for unhoused people across all of King County since 2019.

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Confusion Remains Over WA Cares Exemptions Based on Private Insurance Plans May 03, 2024

There seems to be some confusion among certain state agencies about workers who received exemptions from WA Cares, Washington’s mandatory long-term care benefit program. The program is paid for by 58 cents out of every $100 earned deducted from workers' paychecks. WA Cares provided a one-time opportunity for people to opt out, if they could show they had private long-term care insurance in place before Nov. 1, 2021. This opt-out provision is no longer available to new applicants.

Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_1af6325a-0661-11ef-a5b6-2f675ac19705.html

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If Voters Decide to Allow WA Cares Op-Out, Will the State Refund Tax Collections? Apr 26, 2024

More than nine months since Washington state workers started paying into the state-mandated long-term care insurance program known as WA Cares, most working Washingtonians have contributed at least a few hundred dollars to the program. But if voters approve Initiative 2124 this November, workers can opt out of having 58 cents out of every $100 earned deducted from their paychecks. WA Cares opponents argue the maximum $36,500 benefit, not available until July 2026, is not adequate and may give someone a false sense of security about future long-term care needs.

Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_a7275f6c-01c8-11ef-beaa-af7f77c014c2.html

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Washington’s High-Capacity Magazine Ban Back in Court, Ruling Expected Next Week Apr 19, 2024

There was no decision from the bench Wednesday afternoon in the Gators Custom Guns case regarding the state ban on high-capacity magazines for firearms. State Supreme Court Commissioner Mike Johnston opened the hearing with remarks for what he said was, “the importance of a number of people watching this case.” “Personal side note, I’m a gun enthusiast. I know a lot about guns,” he said. Johnston is the court commissioner who last week granted a temporary stay of a ruling from Cowlitz County that found the high-capacity magazine ban unconstitutional – that is, a violation of the Second Amendment.

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The Uncertain Future of Natural Gas in Washington State Apr 12, 2024

There is ongoing debate over a newly-enacted law and its effect on natural gas in Washington state. The state's largest utility provider says it does not affect natural gas for new or future customers, but others argue that the new provisions set the stage for turning the shut-off valve for good.

House Bill 1589 signed by Gov. Jay Inslee last month consolidates Puget Sound Energy’s planning for both electrical and natural gas. While opponents claim it bans natural gas, PSE recently put out a fact sheet arguing that it does not. At the same time, it references provisions of a separate bill enacted in 2019, Senate Bill 5116, which requires all utilities meet various energy portfolio requirements. Under the Clean Energy Transformation Act, utilities must have 80% non-emitting energy sources by 2030 and 100% non-emitting by 2045.

Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_297d6c46-f69c-11ee-93ab-f3947ebf1a46.html

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Does a New Washington State Law Ban Natural Gas, or Is That Claim ‘Misinformation’? Apr 05, 2024

Puget Sound Energy is challenging claims that a recent bill signed into law restricts or eliminates natural gas service, calling it "misinformation." This session, the Washington State Legislature enacted Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1589, which was signed last week by Gov. Jay Inslee. The bill was proposed during last year’s session, but failed to clear both chambers. Among its provisions are the consolidation of PSE’s planning process for both electric and natural gas services. Initially, the bill also removed PSE’s legal obligation to provide existing natural gas service to customers, while banning future natural gas hookups to new commercial or residential construction.

Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_4496751c-f071-11ee-8146-73fac6fee36b.html

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New Washington Law Allows Illegal Foreign Nationals to Obtain Commercial Licenses Mar 29, 2024

A new law signed by Gov. Jay Inslee allows illegal foreign nationals to obtain professional and commercial licenses to work a variety of jobs if they otherwise qualify or meet requirements. Under existing state law, a commercial vehicle license is needed from the state Department of Licensing to legally work certain careers, whereas other professions are regulated by a board of commission that determine the qualifications.

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WA Supreme Court: Passing the Bar No Longer Required to Be a Lawyer Mar 22, 2024

(The Center Square) – Passing the the bar exam will no longer be a requirement for becoming a lawyer in Washington, the state Supreme Court ruled in a pair of orders Friday. Washington becomes only the second state to officially approve alternatives to the bar, following its southern neighbor, Oregon, which is set to make the change in May. The state Supreme Court appointed a Bar Licensure Task Force to study alternative ways to show competency in 2020, after COVID-19-related modifications resulting in many questioning the efficacy of the current exam.

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Concerns Remain About Passage of a Bill That Paves Way for Natural Gas Ban in WA Mar 15, 2024

One of the most controversial bills passed by the Washington State Legislature this session has yet to be signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1589, dubbed by critics as the "natural gas ban bill," would allow utilities – that is, Puget Sound Energy – to start planning how to move away from natural gas. Inslee is expected to sign the bill, a cornerstone of Inslee's agenda to fight climate change, into law.

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Former WSDOT Economist Sues, Speaks Out Over Gas Price Whistleblowing Claims Mar 08, 2024

Scott Smith, a former economist with the Washington State Department of Transportation, spoke out Wednesday morning about the hostility and retaliation he says he faced after refusing to keep quiet about his calculations last year showing Washington’s cap-and-trade program would increase gas prices by 45 to 50 cents per gallon. “When I was preparing the estimates, the facts were so obvious that it was a matter of sixth-grade math,” he said during a virtual news conference the day after the Citizen Action Defense Fund filed a lawsuit on his behalf.

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Republicans, Others Lament ‘Sham of a Hearing’ on Police Pursuit Initiative Mar 01, 2024

Proponents of Initiative 2113 to reduce requirements for law enforcement to engage in vehicle pursuits expressed frustration at how a Wednesday morning legislative public hearing on the initiative was conducted. Testimony before both the Senate Law & Justice Committee and the House Community Safety, Justice & Reentry Committee did not begin until 30 minutes into the one-hour hearing due to majority party Democrats asking questions of committee staff members. One of the questions asked of staff came from Rep. Tara Simmons, D-Bremerton, who suggested recent studies prove that when police pursuit restrictions are loosened, it increases racial profiling.

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Seattle Mayor Says No to New Taxes to Address $229M Budget Gap Feb 23, 2024

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell said that he would not look at new revenue streams to address the city’s $229 million budget gap. Harrell gave his State of the City address with an emphasis on improving public safety, increasing the city’s affordable housing stock, addressing the drug epidemic and replacing aging infrastructure. “The size of this deficit means that we will have difficult financial decisions ahead,” Harrel said.

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Jeff Bezos’ Move to Miami Looms Large at WA Revenue Forecast Presentation Feb 16, 2024

The executive director of the Washington State Economic and Revenue Forecast Council says the overall revenue picture for the state is “pretty good.” But the elephants in the room as Dave Reich began his revenue forecast presentation Wednesday morning were the state Department of Revenue's Tuesday announcement that it had made a series of errors in tallying the state's new capital gains tax and the recent departure of a billionaire to live in another state. The errors, he said came from "a double booking of about $50 million in tax receipts from the capital gains tax."

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Will the Cap-And-Trade Repeal Initiative Succeed? The Markets Might Think So Feb 09, 2024

Initiative 2117 to repeal Washington state's cap-and-trade law under the Climate Commitment Act could already be impacting the CCA's carbon credit futures market that is meant to reduce overall carbon emissions. Via forums like the Intercontinental Exchange, or ICE, traders can buy and sell Washington carbon credit futures. Closing prices have steadily declined since I-2117 was certified last month, though the December 2024 CCA contracts were dropping slightly in the months before the measure was certified.

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Olympia Rallygoers Demand Democrats Hold Hearings on Voter-Backed Initiatives Feb 02, 2024

A group of Washingtonians turned out Wednesday afternoon at the steps of the Capitol building in Olympia to demand lawmakers follow the state's constitution and act on six certified initiatives. In December, the Let’s Go Washington voter advocacy group turned in 2.6 million signatures on initiatives to loosen restrictions on allowing police to pursue dangerous criminals, repeal the carbon tax, establish parental rights in public schools, abolish the capital gains tax, allow people who are employed to opt out of the state’s long-term care program, and ban further efforts to pass income taxes.

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Washington Bill Would Require a Convicted Sex Offender Serve on State Policy Board Jan 26, 2024

A Washington bill would require a convicted sex offender be among the members of the State Sex Offender Policy Board, which would also be renamed “Sex Offense Policy Board.” House Bill 2177 sponsored by Rep. Tarra Simmons, D-Bremerton, would also require a victim of a sex offense serve in an effort to “diversify” the number of backgrounds represented on the board. While supporters maintain that it will allow greater representation in crafting policies for the conviction and release of sex offenders, some critics say it strays from the board's original purpose of allowing neutral voices to make recommendations.

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U.S. Supreme Court Won’t Hear Washington State’s Capital Gains Tax Case Jan 19, 2024

The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday morning declined to hear an appeal of a Washington State Supreme Court ruling from March 2023 that found a statewide capital gains tax to be lawful. The justices, as is their custom, did not offer a reason for not taking the case. Opponents of the tax – a 7% levy on individuals’ long-term capital gains exceeding $250,000 – had argued it was functionally an income tax that violated the state constitution’s strict rules on income taxes.

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Inslee Delivers Final State of the State as Legacy Initiatives Face Uncertain Future Jan 12, 2024

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee delivered his 11th and final state-of-the-state address Tuesday before a joint session of the state Legislature. “We will always be the strongest state in the nation; in fact, the state of our state is stronger than ever,” Inslee said as he opened his midday speech. The governor touted many accomplishments, including the increase in the state minimum wage while he’s been in office.

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Think Tank: Gov. Inslee Knew Cap-And-Trade Could Hike Gas Prices a Decade Ago Jan 05, 2024

Gov. Jay Inslee has long known that a carbon tax could significantly increase gas prices in Washington state, contends the conservative Washington Policy Center think tank, which says it has the receipts to back up that claim. In a Thursday morning blog post, WPC Environmental Director Todd Myers notes that reports from Inslee’s 2014 Carbon Emissions Reduction Task Force, or CERT, showed a carbon tax could result in a significant hike in the price at the pump.

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Vancouver, WA Approves Short-Term Rental Regulations Targeting Airbnbs Dec 29, 2023

The Vancouver City Council approved a short-term rental ordinance that requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and a short-term rental permit. The operators will be required to pay $50 for the business license and $250 for the permit. Applicants will have to apply for a one-time permit by Feb. 15, 2024. Prior to the recently passed ordinance, the city’s land use and development code did not allow short-term rentals in residential zones except as expressly authorized under the bed-and-breakfast provisions.

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Three Washington Groups Allegedly Ran ‘Coordinated Intimidation Campaign’ Against Signature Drive Dec 22, 2023

Let’s Go Washington has sent a cease-and-desist letter to three organizations it’s accused of illegally interfering with its signature gathering efforts for initiatives to be placed on the November 2024 ballot. The letter, written by former State Attorney General Rob McKenna, accuses Fuse Washington, SEIU 775 and Washington D.C.-based Fieldworks of engaging in “a coordinated intimidation campaign against contractors for our client, Let’s Go Washington, and voters, to disrupt and prevent the collection of voter signatures for several initiative petitions in Washington.”

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Inslee’s Proposed Supplemental Budget Adds $2 Billion in Spending Dec 15, 2023

Less than a month from the start of the next legislative session, Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee on Wednesday afternoon released his 2024 supplemental budget proposal. The governor’s supplemental budget would add $2 billion in spending to the $69.8 billion operating budget the Legislature passed during this year’s session. “There are some numbers attached to it, but the numbers aren’t important,” Inslee said at a press conference announcing his supplemental budget. “What’s important are the lives. There’s a lot of lives that are going to be improved because of the proposals that we are making.”

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SCOTUS Reviews Washington Couples’ Income Tax Suit Some Say Could Nullify Tax Code Dec 09, 2023

While the U.S. Supreme Court has yet to announce whether it will take up a case regarding whether or not a Washington state capital gains tax is an income tax, it is currently reviewing the legality of a federal tax that poses its own legal challenge. The lawsuit filed by a Washington couple disputes whether they owe $15,000 under a one-time tax enacted in 2017 that applies to the earnings of U.S. residents who generated income from shares in foreign companies.

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Washington Businesses Sue EPA Over ‘Impossible’ Water Standards Dec 08, 2023

The Association of Washington Business is leading a lawsuit against the federal Environmental Protection Agency, contending it has imposed water quality standards on Washington state that are “impossible” to achieve, conflict with the agency’s own guidance, and have no basis in “real-world data.” AWB filed its complaint Monday in U.S. District Court in the District of Columbia. Plaintiffs also include the Northwest Pulp & Paper Association, the American Forest & Paper Association, Greater Spokane Inc., and Food Northwest, a food processing trade association.

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Gov’s Office Downplays Former State Economist’s Claim of Pressure to Lie About Gas Prices Dec 07, 2023

The Governor’s Office has “ascertained a few very preliminary, tentative findings” regarding a former state economist who says he had to resign after suffering retaliation for his analysis that Washington’s cap-and-trade policy would significantly increase gas prices. Under the Climate Commitment Act of 2021, emitters are required to obtain “emissions allowances” equal to their covered greenhouse gas emissions at quarterly auctions hosted by the Department of Ecology.

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Tukwila Encampment Grows to 338 Asylum Seekers, Including 97 Children Dec 02, 2023

Despite issuing a state of emergency to address a large encampment of asylum seekers in Tukwila, the number of asylees has continued to increase. Tukwila Mayor Allan Ekberg originally issued a state of emergency last month when the original estimate of the number of asylum seekers living at the Riverton Park United Methodist Church was more than 200 people.

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Washington Supreme Court asked to review control of Pac-12 Conference Dec 01, 2023

The Washington Supreme Court has been asked to consider discretionary review of a lower court order that currently grants control of the Pac-12 Conference to Washington State University and Oregon State University. On Tuesday, Supreme Court commissioner Michael E. Johnston granted a stay in proceedings based on emergency motions sought by the University of Washington and the Pac-12 itself.

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Study: WA Supreme Court Analysis Finds Progressive Domination of Donations, Decisions Nov 30, 2023

A Ballotpedia analysis of Washington state Supreme Court candidate campaign finance and court case outcomes between 2013 and 2022 shows that progressive candidates and causes dominate in the Evergreen State. The online political encyclopedia coded large samples of data – both campaign donors and court case parties and amici – according to progressive versus conservative ideological leaning and 28 different sector or policy categories.

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City: Permitless Pro-Palestine Protests in Seattle Are Protected by First Amendment Nov 24, 2023

Pro-Palestine rallies have occurred in downtown Seattle for the last few weekends, but despite complications they may cause with traffic, the protests fall under First Amendment rights, according to city officials. Since the Oct. 7 surprise attack by Hamas on Israel that claimed the lives of some 1,200 people and resulted in more than 200 people being taken hostage and Israel’s retaliation in Gaza, hundreds of Seattleites have gathered in the downtown area to call for a ceasefire and chanted, “Free Palestine!”

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SCOTUS Decision Could Come Soon on Taking Washington Tax Lawsuit Nov 22, 2023

The U.S. Supreme Court could decide as early as Dec. 11 whether it will take up a Washington lawsuit challenging the legality of the state’s capital gains tax, according to the Mountain States Policy Center. Enacted in 2021, the tax is on the income derived from the sale of capital gains, which the State Supreme Court ruled earlier this year is an excise tax.

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Seattle City Council Shoots Down $1.5M Police Surveillance Technology Reduction Nov 18, 2023

An amendment to transfer $1.5 million dedicated to police surveillance technology to fund services for tiny house villages in Seattle has been rejected by a majority of the Seattle City Council. ShotSpotter is a technology program that differentiates the sounds of gunshots from other loud sounds like fireworks or the backfiring of a vehicle so that police can respond to the scene quickly. Four city council members were in favor of transferring the $1.5 million dedicated to the technology’s implementation due to a number of studies that claim it’s ineffective and targets communities of color.

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Republicans Blame Gov. Inslee, Ecology for Reported Salmon Loss Nov 17, 2023

Three Republican congressional members from eastern Washington and Oregon who oppose breaching the lower Snake River dams for salmon recovery are pointing to a new federal study to blame Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee and state and federal environmental agencies for “misguided efforts” harming salmon in the Puget Sound. U.S. Reps. Dan Newhouse and Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington and Rep. Cliff Bentz of Oregon say a report issued last week by the U.S. Government Accountability Office shows that the federal Environmental Protection Agency and the Washington Department of Ecology have missed several deadlines since 2012 in assessing water quality standards in the Puget Sound.

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Washington Panel Recommended Treatment Over Jail Time for Child Porn Nov 16, 2023

The Washington Sex Offender Policy Board last year recommended the Legislature consider treatment rather than imprisonment for those convicted of possessing or viewing child pornography or caught in an internet sting operation. The recommendations among several contained in a report to the House Public Safety Committee regarding “treatment alternatives for certain sex offenses; lifetime supervision; failure to register; washouts; and system improvements.”

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Initial Election Results Point To Overhaul of Seattle City Council Nov 11, 2023

Initial results from Tuesday's general election point to an overhaul of all Seattle City Council district councilmembers. District 2, 6 and 7 include incumbent city councilmembers racing to retain their seats, but as of the initial votes, none are leading against their respective challengers.

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Washington Elections Offices Closed After Fentanyl Found in Envelopes Nov 10, 2023

Elections offices in four Washington counties were closed as a precaution Wednesday after they received envelopes containing unknown powdery substances, reported the Secretary of State’s Office. The suspicious envelopes were received in King, Pierce, Skagit and Spokane counties. The discoveries disrupted ballot counting by workers following Tuesday’s general election in Washington.

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County Says State Board Recommendation Would End Public Notices for Sex Offender Housing Nov 09, 2023

The Center Square reported that the state Sex Offender Policy Board was examining a recommendation to end community notifications for convicted sex offenders, based on a document referenced at its Sept. 21 meeting. Although board members have since insisted that there are no plans to end community notifications, the board last year recommended the Legislature amend a state statute that one county says would remove a requirement for public notice and public comment before siting and permitting less restrictive alternative facilities for violent sex offenders.

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Seattle Police Department Implements New Ruse Policy to Improve Public Trust Nov 04, 2023

The Seattle Police Department is implementing a new policy that establishes clearer guardrails for the use of ruses. Under the new policy, patrol ruses – which are defined as statements an officer knows is not true – can only be used under five circumstances: for the furtherance of de-escalation, to calm a person, prompt the safety of any person, for scene management, or to bring potentially violent situations to a peaceful resolution.

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U.S. Rep. Newhouse Among Those Opposing Feds’ Grizzly Bear Proposal Nov 03, 2023

Congressman Dan Newhouse was among a large crowd voicing opposition Monday to a federal proposal to reintroduce grizzly bears into north-central Washington state. “It is clear you all know that grizzles can and probably will move out of the zone in which you drop them, yet rather than letting common sense prevail, are continuing to push forward with this dangerous plan,” Newhouse told representatives from the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife at a public meeting in Omak.

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Washington State Continues Search for Housing Affordability Solutions Nov 02, 2023

As Washington continues to experience a severe housing affordability crisis, state legislators may finetune some existing tax incentive programs to encourage greater development. Among them is the multifamily tax exemption program created following passage of the Growth Management Act. Implemented at the local level, the tax exemption makes development more affordable upfront while delaying tax revenue otherwise collected. Since 2019, 35,000 residential units have been produced through the MFTE program.

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Vancouver City Council Approves 33-Year Tree Canopy Plan as a Resolution Oct 28, 2023

The Vancouver City Council has unanimously approved the Vancouver Urban Forestry Management Plan resolution that seeks to reach a 28% tree canopy goal by 2047. Vancouver's current 21% tree coverage provides more than $40 million in ecological benefits to the city, according to the plan, which was created in part by software company PlanIT GEO. However, in order to reach the 28% tree canopy goal, it would cost the city tens of millions of dollars, as previously reported by The Center Square.

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Washington State Saw Violent Crime Increase in 2022 Oct 27, 2023

Both the FBI and a state law enforcement association say violent crime in Washington increased in 2022, running contrary to overall national findings. Last week, the bureau released data on more than 11 million criminal offenses reported across the U.S. in the prior year. FBI’s estimates showed that national violent crime decreased an estimated 1.7% in 2022 compared to 2021. However, during the same period, Washington state’s violent crime numbers rose an estimated 1.06%, according to FBI statistics.

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Fixing Washington’s ‘Broken’ Transportation Funding System Oct 26, 2023

State and county officials have recently highlighted a severe shortage of funding for transportation infrastructure in Washington that includes roads, bridges and highways. However, the overall problem stems from a variety of contributing factors that are causing one state legislator to call for an overhaul of the system. “I think the problem is really where the priorities are,” Rep. Keith Goehner, R-Dryden, said in an interview with The Center Square. Goehner is a member of the House Transportation Committee and recently penned a guest column for The Wenatchee World arguing the state needs to cease unnecessary transportation projects and shift toward maintenance work.

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King County Moves on Potential $1 Billion Property Tax Hike for Climate Action Oct 21, 2023

King County voters may see a new climate levy lid lift on their ballots next year as county officials begin discussions to increase revenue to reduce climate impact efforts. The new motion would request King County Executive Dow Constantine to develop funding options to generate $1 billion in funding over a six- or nine-year period. Funds would be used for greenhouse gas reduction efforts and response to climate impacts.

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Washington DOT Claims $11 Billion Backlog of Infrastructure Projects Oct 20, 2023

While Washington's Climate Commitment Act has generated more than $1 billion in less than a year to fund climate change initiatives, the Washington State Department of Transportation says they don't have enough money to replace infrastructure that's at the end of its lifespan. Although the state agency has for years warned of a “glidepath toward failure” regarding funding for road maintenance and preservation, WSDOT officials now say years of funding gaps have added up to the tune of $11 billion worth of project backlog.

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Two Ballot Measures Loom Large for Spokane Voters Oct 19, 2023

Two ballot measures loom large for Spokane voters in the upcoming Nov. 7 general election. Measure No. 1 calls for a two-tenths of 1% increase in the countywide sales tax – that is, 2 cents more on every $10 purchase – beginning next April and continuing over 30 years. There is an exemption on motor vehicle sales and leases. If enacted, the measure over time will raise an estimated $1.7 billion for criminal justice, public safety, and behavioral health purposes. Voters across Spokane County will see Measure 1 on their ballots, which are being mailed out later this week. Another initiative, Proposition No. 1, seeks to ban homeless encampments near schools, parks, playgrounds, and childcare facilities within Spokane City limits. Only Spokane voters within city limits will decide this proposal.

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WA SOPB Chair Reiterates Support for Community Notification on Sex Offenders Oct 13, 2023

Brad Meryhew, chair of the Washington State Sex Offender Policy Board, said he wants to clear the air regarding a research document by an outside agency that was brought up by Cathy Dahlquist, a former state legislator, at the board's Sept. 21 meeting. The document is a summary put together by the SOPB’s data scientist of a draft Model Penal Code document from the American Law Institute, a Philadelphia-based research and advocacy group of judges, lawyers and legal scholars. The MPC concludes that community notification actually undermines public safety, recommending that sex offender registries be reserved for law enforcement and not be made available to the public. The institute reasons that notifications and registries make it more difficult for offenders to re-integrate into the community.

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King County Felony Caseload Not Expected to Normalize Within Next Several Years Oct 12, 2023

King County’s work to address a pandemic-caused caseload backlog has seen some success as of late, but over 1,500 more serious cases remain unaddressed. According to the criminal case backlog report, the district court-filed backlog was fully addressed as of March 31. Yet the report notes that Superior Court felony pending cases are not expected to reach pre-COVID 19 pandemic volume within the next several years “under any plausible funding scenarios."

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Spokane City Council Okays Licensing Inspections of Massage Businesses Oct 06, 2023

Spokane City Council members on Monday unanimously approved a measure regulating local massage and reflexology businesses as a safeguard against potential prostitution, human trafficking and other related crimes. Council president Lori Kinnear said the ordinance proposal enables the city to affirm the certifications or credentials of such businesses or individual practitioners and deny or revoke licenses for non-compliance or illegal activity.

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King County’s Homeless Program Spent $70 Million, Housed 803 in 2022 Amid Construction Oct 05, 2023

An annual report reveals that King County’s program to house people through 15 sites used more than $70 million to house 803 people due to incomplete construction and other issues. The Health Through Housing initiative’s primary goal is to open 1,600 units of affordable housing for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming unhoused in King County. The county previously anticipated it would meet the 1,600 unit goal by the end of 2022, but fell short with 1,366 units of housing being ready to use, or under construction at the end of the year.

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Divided Spokane City Council Censures Mayor Over Appearance at Worship Event Sep 30, 2023

A divided Spokane City Council voted 4-3 Monday night to censure Mayor Nadine Woodward for her brief on-stage appearance at a large Christian worship gathering last month when she received a prayer blessing from controversial former state Republican legislator Matt Shea. Woodward, council members and others who testified criticized the measure as a political attack timed just weeks before ballots for the Nov. 7 election hit mailboxes.

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Seattleites React to Planned Target Closures Due to Retail Theft Sep 29, 2023

Target announced the closures of nine stores across four states, including two in Seattle, Wash. due to retail theft, but some Seattleites are unfazed over the stores closing down. In a Tuesday news release, the retailer stated it can't continue operating the stores because theft and organized retail crime are threatening the safety of its employees and customers, and contributing to unsustainable business performance.

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WA Considers Allowing Fingerprint Scan, Facial Analysis to Buy Alcohol, Cannabis Sep 28, 2023

The Washington State Legislature may consider legislation giving the State Liquor and Cannabis Board further rulemaking authority regarding the use of biometric age verification by private entities selling alcohol or cannabis products. “I think with the biometrics, it’s just a matter of time before it’s coming in,” Director of Policy and External Affairs Justin Nordhorn told the Senate Labor & Commerce Committee at its Monday meeting. “How we do that is important.

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Homelessness Authority Shuttering Partnership for Zero Pilot Program in Seattle Sep 23, 2023

The King County Regional Homelessness Authority is winding down its pilot program that focused resources on getting homeless people in the downtown Seattle area into shelters. Partnership for Zero, a public-private collaboration with the aim of ending unsheltered homelessness in downtown Seattle, was started in 2022. Its goal was to achieve what's known as “functional zero" – that is, enough services, housing and shelter beds for everyone in need.

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$18 Million Bellevue Project Would Convert Vehicle Lanes for Bikes Sep 22, 2023

The city of Bellevue is considering an $18 million project that would convert vehicle lanes in various local arterials into bike lanes, a move city officials believe would reduce biker fatalities and improve non-vehicular commuting without negatively affecting traffic conditions. However, opponents are arguing that the project would achieve none of those objectives.

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Chances of FEMA Disaster Declaration for Spokane County Wildfires ‘Probably Slim' Sep 21, 2023

It looks like Spokane County won't be getting as much federal aid as anticipated related to the recent area wildfires. “We’ve done some damage assessments for the public assistance program, which is anything to do with infrastructure,” said Assistant Director of Operations for the Washington State Emergency Management Division Stacey McClain at Tuesday morning's Spokane County Board of Commissioners meeting. “Fortunately, and unfortunately, there is not enough damage to meet our state threshold.”

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$3.82 a Gallon Gas at Kent Station Rallies Support Against Washington’s Carbon Tax Sep 16, 2023

One gas station in Kent, Washington got more than its fair share of business Wednesday morning in hosting an event that gave motorists a gas tax holiday of sorts. Approximately 200 drivers got some relief at the pump there, paying just $3.82 a gallon which is the current national average, thanks to the Washington chapter of Americans for Prosperity and Future 42, two groups which put on the two-hour cheap gas event to draw attention to the state's cap-and-trade law – part of 2021's Climate Commitment Act – they contend is contributing to Washington's high gas prices, currently averaging more than $5 per gallon statewide.

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Bellevue Residents Pushback Against City’s Proposed ‘Slush Fund’ Sep 15, 2023

The Bellevue City Council is receiving pushback from residents over a transportation benefit district that, if funded as proposed, would generate an additional $10 million in sales tax revenue. While proponents within city hall say it’s necessary to cover some transportation projects, including maintenance work, some critics have called it an unnecessary and permanent “slush fund” and one of many recent tax increases without voter approval.

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Bodycam Video: SPD Officer Heard Laughing About Woman Hit, Killed by Cop Car Sep 14, 2023

The Seattle Office of Police Accountability is investigating footage of a police officer who made light of a pedestrian who was struck and killed by a Seattle police vehicle in January. The Seattle Police Department released footage showing Seattle Police Officers Guild Vice President Daniel Auderer on a phone call, reportedly with Seattle Police Officers Guild President Mike Solan, on Jan. 23. That night, Jaahnavi Kandula, 23, was hit and killed by a marked Seattle police vehicle going 74 mph in an intersection.

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WA Electrical Contractors Jolted by New Law They Say Favors Big Contractors, Unions Sep 09, 2023

Legislation passed this session and signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee was intended to boost the number of electricians in Washington state. Some small electrical contractors, however, argue the new law is hurting their businesses. Senate Bill 5320 requires applicants for a journey level electrician certificate to have completed an approved apprenticeship program to take the required examination to be a journey level electrician. As part of the apprenticeship, an applicant must have worked in the electrical construction trade for at least 8,000 hours, 4,000 of which must be in electrical installations in industrial or commercial facilities under supervision.

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WA’s Third Quarterly Carbon Auction Brings in More Than $541 Million Sep 08, 2023

Washington state’s third quarterly auction of emissions allowances under the cap-and-trade program established by the Climate Commitment Act brought in more than $541 million, according to a Wednesday summary report put out by the Department of Ecology. That dollar figure is derived by multiplying the $63.03 allowance price at the Aug. 30 auction by the 8.585 million allowances that were sold.

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669 Seattle Police Officers Have Resigned Since 2019 Sep 07, 2023

Since 2019, the Seattle Police Department has had 669 officers resign, according to data obtained by the SPD. The total number of deployable officers has now shrunk down to less than 900, according to the Seattle Police Officers Guild, a staffing crisis they say is primarily driven by a hostile ideological and political climate within the city.

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‘We’re Gonna Catch ‘Em’: Seattle Police Respond to August Uptick in Robberies Sep 02, 2023

The Seattle Police Department is continuing investigations into an increase in robberies in the city’s South Precinct. According to the department, there have been 14 reported incidents of pattern robberies in the South Precinct from June through Aug. 25. The department suspects more robberies have gone unreported.

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Spokane Anti-Camping Initiative Sees Little Opposition in Court, Voters’ Pamphlet Sep 01, 2023

Spokane Superior Court Judge Tony Hazel has cleared the way for a ballot initiative that would ban camping within 1,000 feet of places like schools, playgrounds and child care facilities to appear on the November ballot. Local attorney Brian Hansen, the man behind the initiative, argues it will – if passed – protect children.

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WA AG Advised Utilities Commission to Conceal Carbon Tax Impact on Energy Rates Aug 31, 2023

Earlier this month, the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission approved a request by Puget Sound Energy to increase its natural gas rates to cover the costs of the state’s cap-and-trade program under the Climate Commitment Act. However, the approval also carried with it a stipulation that the utility provider could not show on customers' bills the reason for the rate increase, a decision that was recommended by the Washington Attorney General’s Office.

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22 WA Counties Sue State for Refusal to Provide Behavioral Health Treatment Aug 26, 2023

A coalition of 22 Washington state counties and the Washington State Association of Counties are suing the Washington Department of Social and Health Services over the department's administration of behavioral health services. According to the lawsuit, filed in Pierce County Superior Court, the department failed a fundamental obligation by refusing to provide mental health services to conversion patients. Despite court orders and state laws requiring DSHS to provide such treatment, the department asserted that it is no longer obligated to evaluate or treat patients whose criminal charges are dismissed, citing a federal judge’s orders in a separate case.

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Police Arrest Two for Burglary in Gray Fire Evacuation Zone Around Medical Lake Aug 25, 2023

When most of the county comes together during times of public crisis like the wildfires currently ravaging the countryside, the Spokane County Sheriff’s department wants residents to be aware that not everyone is there to help. Two individuals have been arrested for residential burglary in a region of Medical Lake that is part of the Gray Fire evacuation zone, according to a Tuesday news release from the sheriff's department and the Spokane Police Department.

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Washington State Might Create ‘Cash for Clunkers’ Program to Subsidize EV Sales Aug 24, 2023

The state of Washington might create a “cash for clunkers” program to subsidize the purchase of electric vehicles and encourage a transition away from high emission gas vehicles. It’s one of several potential recommendations under consideration by the state Electric Vehicle Advisory Committee to include in an impending Transportation Electrification Strategy update.

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Eventful July in Seattle Results in Record-Breaking Transit Ridership Rates Aug 19, 2023

A month full of events in Seattle resulted in over one million people using light rail, King County Metro buses and the water taxi during three notable days in July. Sound Transit saw record-breaking ridership numbers thanks in large part to the Major League Baseball All-Star game, multiple Taylor Swift concerts, the Capitol Hill Block Party music festival and a Seattle Mariners home series against the Toronto Blue Jays.

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$62.5 Million Carbon Auction Sells Out, Totaling $919.5 Million Year-To-Date Aug 18, 2023

The Washington State Department of Ecology has announced the results of last week’s emergency carbon auction, and it seems the carbon business is booming with all $62.5 million in shares selling. The closed-bid, fixed price auction consisted of two 527,000 credit tranches, with the first tranche priced at $51.90 per credit and the second at $66.86 per credit.

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AGO Files Lawsuit Against O’Reilly’s for Alleged Discrimination Against Pregnant Workers Aug 17, 2023

The Washington State Attorney General’s Office has filed a lawsuit in King County Superior Court against O’Reilly's for allegedly failing to accommodate pregnant employees as required by state law. The lawsuit seeks thousands of dollars in fines against the auto retailer for each alleged incident. Under state law, employers must make “reasonable” accommodations for pregnant workers unless they demonstrate it would impose undue hardship on the business itself.

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Seattle City Council Repeals ‘A Relic’ License Fee on Amusement Devices Aug 12, 2023

The Seattle City Council has passed an ordinance that repeals an annual license fee on various amusement devices owned by Seattle businesses. The Seattle Municipal Code defines an amusement device as any machine or device which provides recreation or entertainment with a charge for use of play. Examples include pool tables, shuffleboards, music machines, video games, pinball machines, riding devices, and peepshow devices.

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Washington State Holds $62.5 Million Emergency Carbon Credit Auction Aug 11, 2023

With prices at the pump soaring, the Washington State Department of Ecology held its first Allowance Price Containment Reserve auction on Wednesday for the cap and trade program that went into effect at the beginning of the year. Per the Climate Commitment Act passed by the state Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee in 2021, Washington’s cap and trade program requires emitters to obtain “emissions allowances” equal to their covered greenhouse gas emissions. Similar to stocks and bonds, these allowances can be obtained through quarterly auctions hosted by the Department of Ecology.

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Washington AGO Ordered Private College to Collect Documents for Potential Lawsuit Aug 10, 2023

The Washington Attorney General’s Office is being accused of an “unethical and probably illegal” act of ordering a private university that is not a client of the AGO to seize and preserve records in anticipation of a potential lawsuit, a process known as a “litigation hold notice.” The litigation hold notice is part of an ongoing dispute between Police Strategies President Bob Scales, a former King County prosecutor, and the AGO over various aspects of a request for proposal process to develop a public police use of force database. Scales intended to subcontract with Seattle University, which at the time was looking at bidding on the proposal but ultimately declined.

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Proposed Rent Control ‘Trigger Law’ Shot Down by Seattle City Council Aug 05, 2023

Seattle City Councilmember Kshama Sawant’s proposed rent control bill has been rejected by the city council, with the city’s divide on the topic evident throughout the meeting. The public comment section of Tuesday's city council meeting lasted more than an hour, and included tenants and landlords speaking for and against Council Bill 120606. The council meeting revealed a growing disdain from some residents who feel neither political party represents them. A couple people voiced their opinion through song, others called out members of the Seattle City Council. Advocates for the rent control trigger law also chanted “dump the elephant, dump the ass, we need a party for the working class.”

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WA Department of Ecology Outlines Drought Declaration, $3 Million in Grant Funding Aug 04, 2023

In a presentation to the Joint Legislative Committee on Water Supply During Drought, representatives from the Department of Ecology went over what led to the recent drought declaration and what the corresponding $3 million in grant funding means for communities. “A main one is that we look at water supply seasonal forecasts. What is the volume of runoff expected, especially for that April through September period, which in our state is when water supply challenges are likely to arise?" asked Jeff Marti, Drought Coordinator for the Department of Ecology’s Water Resources Division, during Monday’s committee meeting.

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What Will the New I-5 Bridge Look Like? Aug 03, 2023

With funding commitments secured from both Washington and Oregon for the new Interstate 5 Bridge between Vancouver and Portland, the Joint Legislative Action Committee is now looking at potential designs for the replacement bridge that differ in their aesthetic style and functionality. Although Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has yet to sign it, a bill passed this session by the State Legislature committed a total of $1 billion in the form of $250 million in bonds during this biennium and another three rounds of bond sales for each subsequent biennia. The Washington Legislature allocated $1 billion for the new bridge as part of the Move Ahead Washington transportation package.

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Next Phase of $133M Airport Noise Cancelling Project Approved by Seattle Port Commission Jul 29, 2023

The Port of Seattle Commission has authorized the next phase of a $133 million multi-year sound insulation program to wind down in 2026. The Sound Insulation Program had its genesis in 1985 and to date has provided high quality sound deadening insulation to more than 9,400 single-family homes and five condominium complexes in the vicinity of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, according to a Port of Seattle Commission news release.

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Insurers Claim State Study on Increased Claims Complaints Is ‘Misplaced’ Jul 28, 2023

Insurance advocacy groups in Washington state are pushing back against a new study released by the Office of the Insurance Commissioner highlighting the recent increase in insurance claim complaints. According to the OIC, its Consumer Advocacy Program received 467 complaints in April 2023 compared to the average of 287 per month. As of May, claim handling issues were documented in over 80% of all complaint reasons.

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WSU President Accused of Intervening in Ethics Investigation Over $15M Contract Jul 22, 2023

Washington State University President Kirk Schulz has been accused of interfering with an ethics violation investigation after a complaint was made against two employees in relation to a request for proposal to develop a police use of force database for the Attorney General's Office.

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Deadly Weekend in Renton Spotlights Increasing Crime in the City Jul 21, 2023

Renton officials are discussing ways to improve public safety in the area as violent crime rates continue. Overall crime in Renton increased by 6.4% from 2021 to 2022, according to a report from the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs. There were 7,852 reports of crime in 2021 and 8,353 in 2022. One noticeable statistic from the report is the 133% increase in murders within Renton’s city limits. There were three murders in 2021 and seven in 2022.

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Woodward Administration Two Weeks Behind on Spokane’s 2024 Budget Audit Jul 20, 2023

The Spokane City Council, having recently approved millions in spending for the new labor contract with the Spokane Police Guild, is asking Mayor Nadine Woodward and her administration for answers on the 2024 budget. “We need the best information that we can get to make those difficult decisions. It’s never been about us versus them. We just don’t want to set you up, or the city up, for this financial structure that we cannot sustain,” said Councilmember Betsy Wilkerson during last Monday’s city council meeting approving the guild contract.

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Space Industry Launches $4.6B Into Washington State Annually Jul 15, 2023

When mankind is set to explore Mars and the Moon in the future, the Washington state space industry will play a big role, while potentially generating astronomical dollars in economic impact. According to the Puget Sound Regional Council, the State of Washington’s space industry has an economic impact of $4.6 billion annually and supports 13,103 jobs within the state.

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After Millions Spent, Spokane County Frustrated to See Homeless Numbers Increase Jul 14, 2023

Spokane County commissioners asked the hard questions and came up with few answers about the efficacy of millions of dollars spent on homelessness only to see more people on the streets. The frustration came after a strategic planning meeting Monday, with commissioners getting bogged down in details about the implementation of an interlocal agreement regarding a new regional homeless authority.

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Study: Washington Ranks No. 8 Among States for Increased Home Value Since 2016 Jul 13, 2023

Washington state experienced the eighth largest increase in home prices in the past seven years, according to a new study put out by Texas Real Estate Source. Washington building industry advocates say the increase is due to a regulations that have prevented supply from keeping up with demand.

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Major League Baseball All-Star Game Set to Generate Over $50M for Seattle Jul 08, 2023

The city of Seattle is preparing to host the 2023 Major League Baseball All-Star Game and is expected to generate millions of dollars for the downtown community. The All-Star Game festivities start on Friday, July 7 and run through Tuesday, July 11. According to Visit Seattle, the upcoming events will generate over $50 million in economic impact to the community.

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Spokane City Council Unanimously Approves Police Guild Contract Jul 07, 2023

After an hour-long public study session, the Spokane City Council adjourned to a closed-door executive session to discuss “potential litigation and collective bargaining negotiations,” as Council President Breean Beggs put it. Nearly 30 minutes later, council emerged from chambers with a solution to one of those two topics and commenced a special legislative session.

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Businesses, Customers Push Back Against ‘Additional Danger’ of Seattle App Ordinance Jul 06, 2023

A city of Seattle proposal limiting the ability of companies to deactivate app-based workers has drawn criticism from businesses, community leaders, and customers themselves. At a June 27 meeting of the Public Safety and Human Rights Committee, numerous individuals testifying on the proposed ordinance warned it would undermine safety for customers and discourage them from reporting inappropriate behavior.

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Yakima Airport Volunteers for Washington’s Capacity Expansion With Electrifying Plan Jul 01, 2023

As the Washington Department of Transportation continues its task of recommending a site for a future commercial airport in the state, the City of Yakima is willing to take on an expansion with electric aviation in mind. The Washington Department of Transportation’s Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission is sunsetting after a failed four-year search for a site for a future commercial airport.

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Spokane Police Short 70 Full Time Employees Jun 30, 2023

A presentation to the Spokane City Council during their study session outlined the state of staffing for the Spokane Police Department, and currently, things aren't trending in a good direction. Spokane Assistant Police Chief Justin Lundgren highlighted the difficulties, noting that since 2020 the Spokane Police Department has seen 91 commissioned officer departures from the force. Combined with troubles in recruitment, hiring, and retention, SPD has 70 positions that are either vacant or "cannot [be utilized] for their primary purpose," as Assistant Chief Lundgren put it.

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‘Speed Kills’: Addressing Washington’s Traffic Death Crisis Jun 30, 2023

Washington state has a goal of eliminating traffic fatalities by 2030, but for now, state officials are looking for ways to bring them down from what are currently record highs. According to the latest data, 709 people were killed in traffic accidents last year, the most since Gov. Jay Inslee's Results Washington Initiative began tracking those numbers.

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Foreign National Avoids Prosecution After Illegally Voting in Washington 28 Times Jun 24, 2023

In Washington state, there is a presumptive right to vote when a person registers either through the Secretary of State's Office, the Department of Licensing or DOL. While state officials have noted that illegally registering to vote or voting illegally in an election is a Class C felony, some counties have declined to prosecute in every reported instance of voter fraud.

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Tukwila’s New Minimum Wage Increase Will Be One of Washington State’s Highest Jun 23, 2023

The City of Tukwila will soon raise its minimum wage to better compare to the neighboring City of SeaTac, which has the highest minimum wage in the U.S. at $19.06. The minimum wage increase goes into effect on July 1, 2023. Large employers, which have more than 500 employees, regardless of where those employees are employed, will have to pay its workers a minimum of $18.99.

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Washington Gas Surpasses California, Prices up $1.05 per Gallon This Year Jun 22, 2023

Washington fuel prices took home the gold this week, surpassing California as the most expensive fuel market in the nation. The average price of a gallon of regular unleaded was sitting at $4.89 statewide on Monday, up from $4.81 the week prior according to AAA data. This price hike marks the 20th week this year of rising fuel prices for Washingtonians, following the implementation of the new carbon tax earlier this year.

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Seattle Business Owner Sues City Over CHOP, Previously Described It as ‘Peaceful Protestors’ Jun 17, 2023

A business owner who voiced support for the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest, or CHOP, during its existence and barred armed officers from entering her stores after it ended is now suing the city and filed a tort claim against it for actively participating in CHOP and having the police abandon its local station. Molly Moon Neitzel operates a chain of Molly Moon's Ice Cream in Seattle. Her lawsuit filed against the city on June 7 in federal court seeking damages argues that its decision to abandon the East Precinct station during the 2020 riots and unwillingness to enforce the law during the occupation "subjected businesses, employees, and residents of that neighborhood to extensive property damage, public safety dangers, and an inability to use and access their properties."

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Spokane City Council Brings Police Chief Under Ombudsman Authority Jun 16, 2023

After a nearly four-hour marathon session of readings, debate, public testimony, and votes, the Spokane City Council passed Ordinance Number C39397. The ordinance allows the investigation of the Chief of Police to fall under the purview of the Office of the Police Ombudsman. The ombudsman office is an investigative body consisting of five appointed members, one by the Spokane Police Officers Guild, one by the Lieutenants and Captains Association, one by the City Council, one by the mayor, and the fifth selected by those four members.

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Bellevue Considers Transportation Tax District Amid Increased Traffic Injuries Jun 15, 2023

The City of Bellevue is considering a possible tax district that would send generated revenue solely to transportation maintenance projects. This potential district would be used to address the increase in traffic injuries that the city experienced in 2022. Approximately 29 people were seriously injured and two people were killed on Bellevue city streets last year, according to a city memo. This compares to 25 serious injuries and one person killed in crashes on Bellevue city streets in 2021.

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Former Criminals Deemed ‘Marginalized’ Under Washington State Worker Training Jun 10, 2023

As some states, such as Texas, have enacted laws banning the funding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, or DEI, Washington state is implementing such training for all state agency employees and leadership. Despite the recent firing of the state's first director of the Office of Equity, the office continues its work under a Pro-Equity Anti-Racism, or PEAR, Plan & Playbook developed as part of a 2022 executive order by Gov. Jay Inslee. That work coincides with existing efforts by the State Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee that manages the required training centered around concepts such as Critical Race Theory and institutional privilege.

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Proposed Drug Possession Bill in Seattle Fails Jun 09, 2023

The Seattle City Council voted 5-4 to refuse a bill that would transfer drug possession prosecution authority from King County to the Seattle City Attorney’s Office. The legislation was proposed by Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison and sponsored by City Councilmembers Sara Nelson and Alex Pedersen. The legislation would have allowed the city attorney to prosecute drug possession and public drug use within city limits for the first time in the city’s history.

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Facing Spend-Or-Lose Deadline, Spokane County Awards $4.2 Million No-Bid Contract Jun 08, 2023

The Spokane County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a single-source, read no-bid, contract for $4.2 million dollars in a special session. The contract was awarded to New J LLC, a wireless provider operating out of Spokane, in a pilot program that all parties involved hope will become a more widely adopted model for rural broadband funding. Passing by a unanimous 5-0 vote, the funding was announced via a special session memorandum around 24 hours before the vote took place.

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Report on Washington’s Office of Equity Director: Racial Bias, Avengers, and Instructions From God Jun 02, 2023

Dr. Karen Johnson was let go earlier this month as Washington state’s first director of the Office of Equity following an internal investigation finding she engaged in “inappropriate conduct” with employees that included micromanaging and “inappropriate or insensitive comments” that included ethnic remarks. While Johnson’s last day on the job was May 17, a May 26 investigation report obtained by The Center Square revealed that an internal investigation had been launched in the fall in response to allegations made by employees working in the Office of Financial Management, or OFM, and the Office of Equity, or OOE. The investigation involved interviewing more than a dozen witnesses and 2,649 pages of documentation.

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Spokane Library District Builds $15 Million Library With No New Taxes Jun 01, 2023

The Spokane County Library District is weeks away from project completion in their partnership with Spokane Valley to build a new $15 million library. “I won’t bury the lede, but we are 19 days out from opening June 17th,” said Patrick Roewe, executive director of the Spokane County Library District in a meeting with the Spokane Valley City Council late on Tuesday evening.

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Washington Voters Can Soon Register Online With Partial Social Security Number May 26, 2023

A bill passed this session by the Washington Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee will allow people starting in 2024 to register online to vote in the state by providing the last four digits of a Social Security Number and an electronic signature. It's a process proponents say will make it easier for people to register or pre-register if they're not yet 18, while detractors argue it makes the election system open to fraud or compromise people's private information to cyberattacks.

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Spokane, Washington $50 Million Short of Legal Obligation in General Fund May 25, 2023

The City of Spokane is facing some tough budgetary choices before the year is out. Current projections place the unallocated strategic reserve at $9.2 million in the red, and the targeted total for the general reserve, where $19.1 million remains, is nearly $50 million short of where it's legally obligated to be by city law. The meeting opened with Council President Breean Beggs highlighting the recent ordinance it passed to bring greater transparency and accountability to the budgeting process from the Mayor's office and quickly descended into numbers with the city's budget manager.

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King County’s Homelessness Authority CEO Steps Down After Two Years May 20, 2023

King County Regional Homelessness Authority CEO Marc Dones is stepping down from the role after serving as head of the agency since 2021. In a letter addressed to Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and King County Executive Dow Constantine, Dones compares the role as CEO of the agency to “a relay race,” adding that the time spent as head of the homelessness authority was more of a sprint. “As a queer black person, I have watched many members of my community burn out trying to hold too much for too many and I have watched them become unable to contribute the full breadth of their talent or vision to the work,” Dones said in a letter. “ I have watched them become bitter and destructive and what I know is that I don’t want that for myself.”

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Woodward Touts Blake Fix Victories, Council May Need to Fix Blake Fix May 19, 2023

With the recent passage of the "Blake fix" by the Washington State Legislature, Mayor Nadine Woodward took to Twitter Wednesday to highlight what she called Spokane's "leadership role in new drug laws." "We asked other mayors around the state to join us in pushing for a common-sense solution that sets clear expectations by balancing accountability to community safety and compassion for the individual struggling with addiction. We sent a strong message on behalf of everyone who lives, recreates, attends school, or otherwise enjoys our cities and the Legislature responded," said Mayor Woodward, after calling the current state of affairs a drug crisis and praising the legislation for putting up tougher boundaries and prioritizing public health and safety.

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Washington Gun Ban Lawsuit Moved to Thurston County May 18, 2023

A lawsuit filed in Grant County Superior Court against a newly-enacted Washington state law banning the sale or purchase of firearms deemed “assault weapons” has been moved to Thurston County. Washington Gun Law, or GWL, tweeted out the decision was a “brutal development,” writing in a separate tweet, “This would be very bad for this case.”

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Yakima Police Propose 10% Budget Reductions to Balance City General Fund May 13, 2023

The Yakima Police Department is proposing reductions to its staffing levels to help the city avoid a potential budget gap in the near future. The City of Yakima is requiring all of its departments to identify significant reductions to reach a goal of $7.2 million in savings. The Yakima Police Department is allotted about 44% of the city’s bi-annual budget. Salary and benefits represent 84% of the police department’s bi-annual budget, so cuts to its staff are being proposed.

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Drug Possession Controversy in Washington Comes Full Circle in Spokane May 12, 2023

The Spokane City Council voted on their "Blake fix" law, set to re-criminalize drug possession passed by a 7-0 vote, bringing a local fix to a statewide problem that originated in Spokane. "The idea for this [ordinance] is to pass something now that will, one, help lead the way in Spokane for the whole state. Which is ironic because the Blake decision, which outlawed felony drug possession laws was created by our county prosecutor at the state supreme court, so it's ironic that we're trying to lead the way [for] the state now," said Council President Breean Beggs shortly before the vote on the politically-charged legislation.

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Washington Attorney General’s Office Accused of Playing Favorites in $15 Million Contract May 11, 2023

A series of complaints filed late last year and early this year allege that employees with the Washington Attorney General's Office engaged in "unethical and unlawful conduct" during the selection of a university to create a police use of force database. Per 2021's Senate Bill 5259, the AGO was tasked with overseeing an advisory group to develop recommendations on how to better collect police data, along with creating a request for proposal, or RFP, for a private or public university to collect and store police use of force incident data that would be available for the public to view and download.

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King County Officials Tout Newly-Approved Crisis Care Center Levy May 06, 2023

King County officials see the newly-approved crisis center levy as a step forward in providing sufficient mental health services. While the King County Canvassing Board does not certify the election until May 5, The Center Square is calling the race with the levy receiving 57% approval from voters.

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What Spokane’s Drug Possession Laws Could Look Like Without State Blake Fix May 05, 2023

"Criminalizing drug possession and use is an important step for the public health and safety of our community. We have a drug crisis that requires us to act locally," Spokane Mayor Nadine Woodward told The Center Square just prior to Gov. Jay Inslee calling a special session of the Legislature. The topic of debate for the special session, dubbed the "Blake fix" because of the Washington Supreme Court decision that it addressed, was meant to head off the de-facto legalization of all drug possession in Washington state starting after the current law expires on June 30.

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Washington Elections Bill ‘Generates More Distrust in the System’ May 04, 2023

A bill sent to Washington Gov. Jay Inslee for consideration would exempt various aspects of the election system from public records requests and centralize all local records requests with the Secretary of State's office.

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Spokane Regional Homeless Population up 36% From 2022 Numbers Apr 30, 2023

The 2023 point-in-time count numbers show a significant increase for individuals and families without a permanent abode in Spokane, though a large encampment had been drawing down at the time. According to the 2022 Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress released earlier this year, "homelessness in Washington state increased 10% overall from 2020 to 2022," and the Spokane Regional numbers over that same time period are a significant increase on that percentage.

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South King County Cities Seek Unified Drug Enforcement Amidst Failed ‘Blake Fix’ Apr 29, 2023

Cities throughout King County are seeking their own solutions to a potential lack of illicit drug possession laws in Washington state after the failure of Senate Bill 5536. Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus said she has begun talks with neighboring King County and Pierce County cities to enforce laws that have similar approaches. A common theme amongst King County cities is that they are prioritizing a treatment-forward approach to violators. However, that has a higher price tag.

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Lawsuit Filed Against Washington’s Semi-Automatic Rifle Ban Apr 28, 2023

A coalition of gun rights advocacy groups and individual citizens have filed a lawsuit against a new Washington state ban on firearms deemed “assault weapons” as soon as the legislation was signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee. The complaint filed by the Firearms Policy Coalition and Second Amendment Foundation in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington argues that HB 1240’s ban on certain types of semi-automatic rifles, pistols and shotguns violates the Second and Fourteenth Amendment.

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McMorris Rodgers Pushes for Federal Data Privacy Reform Apr 23, 2023

A Congressional hearing asking "Who's selling your data?" took place in the Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations, where Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers delivered her opening remarks calling for new laws to protect Americans from data brokers and stricter penalties for data breaches.

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Seattle City Council Passes Originally Proposed $10 Late-Fee Cap on Rent Apr 22, 2023

The Seattle City Council has passed a $10 late-fee cap on rent with a 7-2 vote. Seattle now joins the nearby cities of Auburn and Burien in establishing a $10 late fee cap. Socialist City Councilmember Kshama Sawant sponsored Council Bill 120541. The bill cites that while many Seattle landlords do not charge punishing late fees, many do treat late fees as yet another opportunity to exploit their renters.

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Crime and Punishment: Prosecutions After the 2020 Bellevue Riot Apr 21, 2023

On May 31, 2020 more than a thousand individuals rioted in downtown Bellevue, with looters attacking stores at Bellevue Square, the Bellevue Connection, and Lincoln Square. The rioting prompted a civil emergency declaration by the city along with a 12-hour curfew. Afterwards, the Bellevue police department arrested 46 people and undertook a massive investigation into the incident that included sifting through 10,000 hours of video footage and the formation of a task force dedicated to the investigation.

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Downtown Seattle ‘Ambassadors’ Renewal Would Cost $18 Million in Property Taxes Apr 15, 2023

The Metropolitan Improvement District is set to sunset on June 30, but Seattle City Councilmember Sarah Nelson is proposing a 10-year renewal that would collect nearly $3 million more from downtown property owners. The district is managed by the Downtown Seattle Association, with employees, also known as “ambassadors” tasked with services such as daily cleaning of downtown streets and sidewalks.

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Washington Bill Allowing Government to ‘Hide Your Kid From You’ Clears House Apr 14, 2023

The Washington House has passed a bill allowing shelters to keep runaway juveniles from their parents to get an abortion and/or gender surgeries that include removing a girl's breasts or uterus. Although framed by proponents as a bill to protect youth suffering from abuse, SB 5599 only stipulates that the minors be "seeking or receiving protected health care services" for a homeless shelter or "host home" to avoid informing the parents or legal guardians, as otherwise required by state law.

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Gone in 60 Seconds: Division Over ‘Theft’ in Catalytic Converter Theft Bill Apr 08, 2023

A Washington Senate bill aims to crack down on rampant catalytic converter thefts that have put the state worst in the nation. However, Senate Bill 5740 sponsored by Sen. Jeff Wilson, R-Longview, has left industry and law enforcement groups divided over the bill’s provisions that underscore the ease with which the thefts can occur and difficulty in tracking down stolen car parts.

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Twenty-Six Seattle City Employees Made Over $200,000 in Overtime Last Year Apr 07, 2023

There were 26 Seattle City employees that made over $200,000 in overtime pay in 2022. Out of the 26 employees, there were 17 Seattle City Light employees who made over $200,000 in overtime pay. That is the most out of any Seattle department.

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Bill That Would Levy ‘Excess Compensation Tax’ on Hospitals Introduced in Washington Senate Apr 06, 2023

Two Washington State Democratic lawmakers introduced legislation this week that would fund access to health care by imposing an income tax on the annual pay of certain highly compensated hospital employees.

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Bill Making Drug Possession a Misdemeanor Passes Out of House Executive Session Apr 02, 2023

A Washington State House of Representatives committee gave a do-pass recommendation on a 6-3 vote during executive session to an amended version of legislation that would reclassify possession of a controlled substance as a misdemeanor rather than a gross misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000, while the maximum punishment for a gross misdemeanor is 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.

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‘Death of Our Justice System’: Critics Object to WA Bill on Clemency and Pardons Apr 01, 2023

Washington is among 14 states that doesn’t have a parole system for releasing convicted felons prior to the end of their sentence. Under House Bill 1189 sponsored by Rep. David Hackney, D-Tukwila, that authority to commute sentences would still remain in the hands of the governor, though it would reshape the Clemency and Pardons Board, or CPB, in an effort to make the process more “equitable." Some critics say that will result in violent felons being released early and further erode public safety, with Rep. Jenny Graham, R-Spokane, telling colleagues on the House floor on March 4 that "this could very easily be the death of our justice system."

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Seattle Police Lose Officers Despite New $5 Million Recruitment, Retention Plan Mar 31, 2023

The Seattle Police Department is seeing small improvements in its recruitment compared to last year, but there is still a net loss of officers so far in 2023. From the beginning of 2023 through March 16, Seattle Police have hired 19 officers, which is nine more than last year’s year-to-date total of 10 hires. Notably, during the department’s presentation to the Public Safety and Human Services Committee on March 28, officer separation statistics were left out. However, a version of the presentation available online reveals that there was a net loss of 6 officers through March 16, 2023. That is an improvement over the 2022 year-to-date net loss of 28, but is not on pace to reach the city’s goal of a net gain of 500 officers in the next five years.

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‘Industrious Monsters’: Washington Bill Targets Fentanyl Pill Production Mar 26, 2023

As Washington state continues to experience a fentanyl epidemic, a House bill aims to crack down on the mass production of fentanyl pills through the use of tableting machines. House Bill 1209 sponsored by Rep. Mari Leavitt, D-Lakewood, would make it a Class C felony for a person to misuse sell, buy, or use those machines for the purposes of producing illegal drugs. Unlike other potential legislation surrounding the prosecution of drug offenses, there’s little argument over this proposal, which cleared the House unanimously 95-0 on March 7. The number of drug overdose deaths has risen in Washington in recent years, especially in King County. In 2019, there were 422 drug overdose deaths. By 2022, that number had reached 1,033, with roughly 70% of them attributed to fentanyl. Three months into 2023, there have been almost 300 drug overdose deaths.

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Proposed Tree Canopy Bills Could Hinder Tree Cutting Services in Seattle Mar 25, 2023

The City of Seattle is working to address a loss of tree canopy by proposing bills that would increase regulations, potentially affecting tree cutting services in the city. Seattle’s goal is to achieve 30% canopy coverage across the city by 2037. This goal is a result of a finding that from 2016 to 2021, the region had a relative decline in canopy cover of 1.7%, or 255 acres. Neighborhood residential areas had a net loss of 87 acres from 2016 to 2021, the most out of all Seattle land areas. Notably, neighborhood residential areas make up 39% of the city’s land area.

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Washington Supreme Court Upholds Constitutionality of Capital Gains Tax Mar 24, 2023

The Washington State Supreme Court has upheld the constitutionality of the state’s capital gains tax. The court released its 7-2 ruling on Friday morning. The state Legislature passed the capital gains tax in 2021, and Gov. Jay Inslee signed it into law. It creates a 7% tax on profits of more than $250,000 from the sale of some assets, such as stocks and bonds. Last March, Douglas County Superior Court Judge Brian Huber ruled the tax was “properly characterized as an income tax…rather than as an excise tax as argued by the State” and struck it down. The state constitution’s uniformity clause does not allow income to be taxed at different rates.

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Seattle City Prosecutor Salary Increase Ordinance Passed by City Council Mar 19, 2023

The Seattle City Council is addressing a staffing shortage within the Seattle City Attorney’s Office by approving a memorandum of agreement that increases the pay of assistant city prosecutors by 20%. The city council voted 8-0 in favor of the ordinance on March 14. Earlier that day, staff members of the Seattle City Attorney’s Office said they were still working to fill staffing as it lost 12 prosecutors over the last two years. One of the biggest impacts the office cites is its ability to pay prosecutors a competitive salary. According to the report presented to councilmembers, the salary range for a city prosecutor is approximately $81,000 to $110,000 – lower than six other Western Washington cities. This includes Tacoma, Auburn, Bellevue, Renton, SeaTac and Redmond. Between city prosecutors, public defenders and county prosecutors, Seattle city attorneys remain competitive with their salaries up until five years of experience where the average is around $100,000, according to the office’s report.

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‘Very Unbalanced’: Crime Victim Supporters Rally at Capitol Building in Olympia Mar 18, 2023

Angie Dowell’s fight to keep the man who murdered her father behind bars epitomized the spirit of Wednesday afternoon’s “Crime Victims’ Call to Action” on the north steps of the Capitol building in Olympia, Washington. Her father, Loran Dowell, was murdered in a 1980 robbery of the Red Barn Tavern in South King County that claimed two other lives as well. The man convicted of the crime, Timothy Pauley, was sentenced to three life sentences, but after laws were changed in 1984, he became eligible for parole. Pauley was scheduled to be set free last July, but Gov. Jay Inslee blocked it.

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⁠Everyday Economics:⁠ Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

⁠Future of Freedom:⁠ Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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Bill Would Ban Sale of 90% Of Firearms in Washington, Gun Group Warns Mar 17, 2023

The Washington Senate Law & Justice Committee is scheduled to vote next week on House Bill 1240 creating a state definition of “assault weapon,” which the Gun Owners of America, or GOA, says would apply to most firearms. One of the reasons is due to the definition of assault weapons in the bill. Although the bill specifically lists 62 rifles by name "regardless of which company produced and manufactured the firearm," the ban also applies to any semi-automatic rifle with a barrel length less than 30 inches. The gun barrel is the section of a firearm between the action and the muzzle.

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Washington House Passes Semi-automatic ‘Assault Weapons’ Ban Mar 12, 2023

The Washington House has passed a bill that if enacted would ban the sale or distribution of certain semi-automatic weapons and adds a new definition to state law of “assault weapons” that includes rifles, pistols, and shotguns. Critics warn that the wide legal definition will include thousands of ordinary firearms and, under the grandfathering clause, put later descendants of current owners at legal risk should they eventually inherit the firearms. Sponsored by Rep. Strom Peterson, D-Edmonds, at the behest of State Attorney General Bob Ferguson, HB 1240 cleared the state House 55-42 on March 8, just minutes from the legislative cutoff date for bills to advance from their original chamber.

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Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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Constantine: King County’s 1% Property Tax Cap May Cut ‘Essential’ Services Mar 11, 2023

County Executive Dow Constantine says he'll be forced to cut "essential services" unless he's allowed to break the cap on how much more he can tax King County properties. Constantine held his 2023 state of the county address in which he warned of potential cuts to services. The county's primary funding source is the property tax, but Constantine blames a 1% cap on property tax revenue for creating a gap in the general fund. Washington state voters passed the cap in 2001. Notably, the majority of King County votes were against the legislation. The amount of property taxes levied by counties against assessed property value can increase by only 1% per year, plus revenue from new construction. Since the cap was passed in 2001, the King County population has grown nearly 30%, and Constantine said consumer prices are up 70%.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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Road Ahead Unclear for Police Pursuit Reform in Washington Legislature Mar 10, 2023

Despite a surprising turn of events Wednesday that saw legislation pass the Senate giving police in Washington state more discretion in engaging in vehicular pursuits, the ultimate fate of the bill remains to be determined. Engrossed Senate Bill 5352, which passed on a 26-23 vote, would let police pursue if they have reasonable suspicion that a person in the fleeing vehicle has committed or is committing a violent crime, a sex offense, a vehicular assault, domestic violence, an escape, or driving under the influence. Amendments to the bill call for extra training and communication with local law enforcement during chases to protect bystanders.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

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Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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Emergency Powers Reform Bills Seemingly Dead in WA Legislature Mar 05, 2023

Two bills seeking to exercise some legislative oversight of the governor’s powers during an emergency appear to be dead in the Washington State Legislature, with neither receiving a public hearing halfway through the legislative session. Senate Bill 5063, cosponsored by Sen. Lynda Wilson, R-Vancouver, and Sen. Mark Mullet, D-Issaquah, is known as the Bipartisan Approach to Legislative Authority Necessary in Continuing Emergencies, or BALANCE Act of 2023. Join The Center Square's Jeremy Lott and Brett Davis.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

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Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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‘Path to a Hearing’: Sen. Braun More Hopeful on Police Pursuit Reform Legislation Mar 04, 2023

The top Republican in the Washington state Senate expressed some optimism Tuesday about the prospects of a bill to ease restrictions on vehicular pursuits by police in the state. “One, the study bill in the Senate died in Ways and Means, which I think is frankly a good outcome,” Sen. John Braun, R-Centralia, said during Republican leadership’s weekly media availability event to discuss the legislative session. “Nobody who is thinking about this thought studying it for two more years was a good idea, and that bill had limited ability to amend it.” The Senate Republican leader's comments were a reference to Senate Bill 5533 that would keep the current pursuit restrictions in place and give the state Criminal Justice Training Commission until the end of October 2024 to study the issue and come up with model legislation. Join The Center Square's Jeremy Lott & Brett Davis.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

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Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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Bill Would Consolidate Deadly Use of Force Prosecutions in Washington AG’s Office Mar 03, 2023

A Washington state proposal to create an independent prosecutor office for police deadly use of force incidents has drawn controversy for placing it within the State Attorney General’s Office. While some opponents of House Bill 1579 say they’re in favor of shifting prosecuting decisions for deadly use of force incidents away from local prosecutors and to an independent state agency, they argue that having it within the State Attorney General’s Office creates a conflict of interest. Join The Center Square's Jeremy Lott and TJ Martinelli.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

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Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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Proposed Wireless Device Tax Does Not Compute, Critics Tell House Finance Committee Feb 27, 2023

Members of the House Finance Committee got an earful Wednesday morning from Washingtonians opposed to proposed legislation that would add to the cost of purchasing certain wireless devices. House Bill 1793 would add $2 at the point of sale to wireless devices that cost more than $250. Money from the tax would go toward efforts to close the “digital divide” between the haves and the have-nots in terms of internet access and download speed. The legislation defines smart devices as those “capable of wireless access to the internet. This includes, but is not limited to, smart phones, laptop computers, tablets, wearable devices, smart speakers, gaming consoles, smart gyms, and smart televisions.” Join The Center Square's Jeremy Lott and Brett Davis on this episode of Washington in Focus.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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Mayor Admits Downtown Seattle May Not Return to Normal, Prioritizing Revitalization Feb 27, 2023

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell announced his office’s plan to prioritize the restoration of the downtown core in his 2023 State of the City address. Following a year in which the city saw nearly 50,000 cases of crime, Harrell emphasized hope for a better 2023. Citing how the district is home to 100,000 residents and over 320,000 jobs, the mayor sees Downtown Seattle as the “undisputed economic engine and cultural hub of our region.” Join The Center Square's Jeremy Lott and Spencer Pauley on this episode of Washington in Focus.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

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Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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‘Blunt’ Assessment: Pre-Hire Pot Test Ban Has Good Chance of Passing WA House Feb 24, 2023

Democrat leadership in the House of Representatives is open to considering a bill that would prevent businesses in Washington state, with some exceptions, from requiring a drug test to screen for cannabis usage as a condition of employment. “You know, I think to be completely blunt, we are so focused on House bills right now, getting them through fiscal committees and then you know next week moving onto the floor, that we haven’t spent a ton of time discussing bills that we see headed over from the Senate,” Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon, D-Burien, said during Democratic leaders’ weekly media availability event on Thursday afternoon. Join The Center Square's Jeremy Lott and Brett Davis on this episode of Washington in Focus.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

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Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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Washington Rep. Fitzgibbon: Bill to Help Men & Boys Too Focused On ‘Historically Most Advantaged’ Feb 17, 2023

Join The Center Square's Washington Editor Jeremy Lott & Washington Reporters Brett Davis and Spencer Pauley as they discuss House Bill 1270, sponsored by Rep. Mary Dye, R-Pomeroy, would create a state commission to address the well-being of boys and men across Washington. Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon, D-Burien, advocated for a less masculine approach in speaking about the bill at Tuesday afternoon’s weekly media availability event to discuss the current legislative session. King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn will introduce a motion requesting County Executive Dow Constantine to re-hire previously employed county workers who did not comply with the county's COVID-19 vaccination mandate. With Friday’s legislative cutoff looming, a substitute bill lowering the threshold for police in Washington state to engage in vehicular pursuits passed 8-1 out of the House Safety, Justice, & Reentry Committee on Thursday.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

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Episode 45: An Average of 81 Vehicles Are Stolen per Day Throughout Pierce and King Counties Feb 10, 2023

Join Cole McNeely and The Center Square's Washington reporters Brett Davis and Spencer Pauley as they discuss King County seeking state, federal coordination following narcotics seizures worth $17.5M in 2022. Seattle Public Schools are facing a deficit of $131 million that could cause the district to consolidate some of its schools. Proposed $2 wireless device sales tax would fund effort to end Washington’s digital divide. Car theft has been prominent throughout King and Pierce Counties so far this year with an average of 81 cars stolen per day. The King County Sheriff’s Office seized approximately $17.5 million worth of narcotics in 2022.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/washington-in-focus/support

Episode 44: Study Propping up Washington Police Pursuit Law Called Into Question Feb 03, 2023

Join Cole McNeely and The Center Square's Washington reporters Brett Davis and Spencer Pauley as they discuss police officers, law enforcement representatives and mayors urged members of the Washington State House of Representatives to pass legislation restoring the reasonable suspicion threshold for police to engage in vehicular pursuits. The thing currently propping up Washington state’s controversial police pursuit law, which makes high-speed chases difficult for police to justify legally, is the belief that it is saving a great number of lives of innocent parties, either bystanders or passengers, who get hurt in such chases. The Pierce County Council along with the Nisqually and Puyallup Indian tribes are continuing their push to halt the construction on a future airport in the region.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/washington-in-focus/support

Episode 43: Capital Gains Tax Has Its Day in Washington’s Highest Court Jan 27, 2023

Join host Cole McNeely and The Center Square's Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte and Brett Davis as they discuss the Washington State Supreme Court on Thursday morning heard from both sides on the question of whether or not the state’s new capital gains tax passes constitutional muster. Several Republican lawmakers on Wednesday morning said Sen. Manka Dhingra, chair of the Senate Law & Justice Committee and deputy majority leader of the Washington State Senate, should at least consider legislation that would lower the bar on when police officers in Washington state can engage in a vehicular pursuit of criminals. Spokane County is amending the contract with NaphCare, the private company that provides medical services to the jail, so more employees can be hired.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/washington-in-focus/support

Episode 42: Washington House Seats Member Accused of Misrepresenting Service Record on Veterans Committee Jan 20, 2023

Join The Center Square's Washington Editor Jeremy Lott & Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss that the Prison Policy Initiative has grown concerned about a movement by states to replace physical mail for inmates with scanned copies. The group claims that change strips away “one of the last bastions of communication that is not intercepted and monetized by private telecom companies.” Two of Western Washington’s biggest companies announced substantial layoffs that will affect over 28,000 workers. The Washington State House Innovation, Community & Economic Development and Veterans Committee has appointed a new member whose own military service has been the subject of some scrutiny.

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America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/washington-in-focus/support

Episode 41: Washington State Capital Gains Income Tax Collection Takes Effect Jan. 28 Jan 13, 2023

Join host Cole McNeely & The Center Square's Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss Washington state's new capital gains income tax ruled unconstitutional by a lower court judge last year is set to take effect on Jan. 28, two days after oral arguments in the case – Quinn v. State of Washington – are to be heard by the state Supreme Court. King County voters could get the chance to approve a new property tax worth hundreds of dollars for the average homeowner that would fund a network of behavioral health crisis centers. Washington State Sen. Phil Fortunato, R-Auburn, says lawmakers need to give police more abilities to crack down on gang violence rather than targeting law-abiding gun owners trying to defend themselves. Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers picked up the gavel for the first time Wednesday as chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. She led a roundtable discussion about what needs to change with the nation's energy policy to lower high fuel and food costs.

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Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/washington-in-focus/support

Episode 40: King County Confirms 24% Spike in Overdose Deaths in 2022 Jan 06, 2023

Join ATN’S GM Cole McNeely & The Center Square's Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss the property taxes in Bellevue are increasing this year, and property owners may want to know where the money goes. King County Confirms 24% Spike in Overdose Deaths in 2022. At a Wednesday afternoon media briefing, an enthusiastic Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee offered up unqualified support for two new climate change policies that went into effect on Sunday.

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Listen to Other ATN Productions:

America in Focus: A weekly feature of the top TheCenterSquare.com stories of the week out of Washington D.C. with commentary from The Center Square editors and more!

America's Talking: An interview podcast hosted by Austin Berg. Guests include professors, journalists, artists, business and nonprofit leaders, authors, and more.

Everyday Economics: Join economist Dr. Orphe Divounguy and Chris Krug as they discuss global markets, inflation, and everything else that will help you understand the economic world around you.

Future of Freedom: Future of Freedom is a bi-weekly podcast highlighting the work of the non-profits which are shaping the future of the freedom movement. Listeners will hear civil, intellectual conversations about why the organizations exist, what their mission is, and how they work to achieve it. Hosted by Scot Bertram.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/washington-in-focus/support

Episode 39: Washington Pot Shop Armed Robberies at 10-Year High as SAFE Banking Act Fails Dec 30, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss Washington pot shop armed robberies at 10-year high as SAFE Banking Act fails. According to an unofficial tracker by greater Seattle area cannabis retailer Uncle Ike’s, there have been at least 100 armed robberies of Washington state pot shops in 2022, the most in the past decade. The Spokane Ethics Commission has dismissed a complaint that Council President Breean Beggs acted wrongfully by sending information to his peers and city staff about three organizations vying to manage a new homeless shelter.

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Episode 38: Washington AG to Litigants: Don’t Say ‘Tyrannical’ Dec 23, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte and Spencer Pauley as they discuss Washington AG to litigants: Don’t say ‘tyrannical’. State may assist livestock carcass disposal to reduce wolf attacks. Downtown Seattle sees more office workers, seasonal tourism falloff. Seattle Public Schools bus ridership is down, spending at all-time high.

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Episode 37: King County Puts $8M in Unused Jail Bed Savings Toward Community Projects Dec 16, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte and Spencer Pauley as they discuss the Spokane mayor saying shelter beds ready, homeless campers need to come out of the cold. Judge halts plans to disband Spokane homeless camp. King County Puts $8M in Unused Jail Bed Savings Toward Community Projects.

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Episode 36: More Questions Than Answers at Washington Capital Gains Tax Hearing Dec 09, 2022

Join America's Talking Network's General Manager Cole McNeely and The Center Square's Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Spencer Pauley, and Brett Davis as they discuss Spokane council to debate legality of sheriff's actions at Camp Hope. Washington officials say COVID aided in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Seattle-Tacoma is the second worst U.S. metro area for package theft, according to report. More questions than answers at Washington capital gains tax hearing.

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Episode 35: Dem 2023 Legislative Priorities Include Drugs, Police Pursuit, Energy, & Abortion Dec 02, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Spencer Pauley, and Brett Davis as they discuss the Dem 2023 legislative preview: drugs, police pursuit, energy, abortion. Spokane County Commission votes to forgo annual property tax increase. Seattle Transportation Dept. fires up 50 snow plows.

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Episode 34: Seattle Budget Committee Votes Parking Enforcement Back to Police Nov 23, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Spencer Pauley, and Brett Davis as they discuss the Seattle budget committee sides with mayor, votes parking enforcement back to police. Spokane council eyes limiting what DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub can charge. How Whatcom County narrowly went blue.

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Episode 33: Washington Families Dept. Head Unmoved State Couldn’t Audit $271M Nov 18, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Spencer Pauley, and Brett Davis as they discuss Washington Families Dept. head unmoved state couldn't audit $271M. 'I do not mince words': Spokane County's next sheriff sizes up the job ahead. Washington Families Dept. head unmoved state couldn't audit $271M. State auditor: Seattle didn't use good data to tackle homeless crisis.

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Episode 32: Washington Midterm Election Roundup Nov 10, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Spencer Pauley, and Brett Davis as they discuss the results of the midterm elections in the state of Washington.

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Episode 31: Washington Democrat’s Father Fact-Checks Son, Paper Pulls Endorsement Nov 04, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Spencer Pauley, and Brett Davis as they discuss: ‘Uniquely qualified’ Steve Hobbs makes case to remain Washington’s secretary of state. ‘Uniquely qualified’ Steve Hobbs makes case to remain Washington’s secretary of state. Spokane mayor budgets almost $5M more for police services. Spokane firefighters who lost jobs due to vaccine mandate return to duty. Seattle delays budget planning due to 'significantly less than anticipated revenues'. Washington Democrat's father fact-checks son, paper pulls endorsement.

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Episode 30: WSU Professor Details COVID School Closures Impact on Students, Parents Oct 28, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Spencer Pauley, and Brett Davis as they discuss: WSU Professor Details COVID School Closures Impact on Students, Parents. Vice President Harris announces $1B in grants for low-emission buses on Seattle trip. Spokane agencies unite on plan to disband homeless camp.

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Episode 29: High Rent and Housing Costs Have Many Seattleites Considering Other States Oct 21, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Spencer Pauley, and Brett Davis as they discuss: Pierce County distributes $35M to reduce homelessness on state highways. Spokane Valley runs into roadblock on police vehicle replacement plan. High rent and housing costs have many Seattleites considering other states.

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Episode 28: Governor Inslee Ranked Last in the Cato Institute’s Fiscal Policy Report Card Oct 14, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters Spencer Pauley and Brett Davis as they discuss: Gov. Inslee Ranked Last in the Cato Institute’s Fiscal Policy Report Card. Pierce County officials object to two potential airport locations. Seattle to lift COVID-19 emergency proclamation at the end of October.

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Episode 27: Washington Hospitals Lost Almost $2B in Six Months Amidst Staffing Shortages Oct 07, 2022

Join ATN's General Manager Cole McNeely and The Center Square's Washington Reporter Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Seattle University District shootings mobilize city, college officials; mayor touts budget that 'prioritizes public safety'. Washington Hospitals Lost Almost $2B in Six Months Amidst Staffing Shortages. Bellevue firefighters made over $200,000 from overtime pay boosts, reduced staff.

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Episode 26: Seattle Public Schools Expect About $100M Deficits Over Next 4 years Sep 30, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Spencer Pauley, and Brett Davis as they discuss: Jim Ferrell promises more law and order if elected King County prosecutor. Seattle Public Schools expect about $100M deficits over next 4 years. Seattle ranked sixth-best city in the nation for vegans and vegetarians. Spokane County sheriff sets back timeline to disband homeless camp by a month.

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Episode 25: Republicans Balk at Prospect of Governor Inslee Running for a Fourth Term Sep 23, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte and Brett Davis as they discuss: Spokane County sheriff invites state officials to open their own homes to the homeless. State rebukes Spokane's demands for help with Camp Hope. Washington wildlife agency revisits pause on lethal wolf removal following new attacks. Republicans balk at prospect of Gov. Inslee running for a fourth term.

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Episode 24: $271M Failed Audit Not Mentioned at Washington Family Department Oversight Meeting Sep 16, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Transit agencies may turn to taxpayers for more money when COVID-19 funds dry up. $271M failed audit not mentioned at Washington family department oversight meeting. Dispute: Could earlier contract deadline reduce Washington teachers strikes? Wildlife managers mistakenly kill wolf pup on authorized hunt.

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Episode 23: Inslee says Washington's COVID-19 emergency to end Oct. 31 Sep 09, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters Brett Davis and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Inslee: Washington's COVID-19 emergency to end Oct. 31. Ecology won't crunch cost of Washington copying California's new gas car sales ban. Seattle teachers rally as start of school is delayed. New omicron COVID-19 booster shots available in Washington state. Bartell Drugs to shut down in Seattle's Chinatown amid crime surge.

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Episode 22: Teacher strikes in Washington are illegal, but still occurring in King County Sep 02, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters Brett Davis and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Most Washington riders 19 and younger can ride transit for free starting today. Seattle’s Chinatown businesses are at risk in Sound Transit’s light rail extension. Teacher strikes in Washington are illegal, but still occurring in King County.

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Episode 21: McMorris Rodgers calls student loan forgiveness a 'slap in the face' to taxpayers Aug 26, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Washington state has the fourth least amount of student loan debt in the nation. Vaccine mandate one reason for staffing shortage, Washington State Ferries admits. McMorris Rodgers calls student loan forgiveness a 'slap in the face' to taxpayers. Nearly 41% of Washington state voters turned out in primary election.

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Episode 20: Inslee declared Washington COVID emergency 900 days ago, and never rescinded it Aug 19, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Anderson calls Hobbs 'inexperienced political appointee' in first Washington Secretary of State debate. Seattle City Council approves hiring bonuses to fix police staffing shortage. $49M Lynnwood bridge could improve I-5 traffic. Inslee declared Washington COVID emergency 900 days ago, and never rescinded it.

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Episode 19: Families Department fails Washington audit over $271M for child care; may ask Legislature for more Aug 12, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: 'I’ll always run from you.' Spokane chase shows Washington law enforcement's pursuit problem. Some close Washington primary races remain to be decided. Kent beats Herrera Beutler in Washington's 3rd Congressional District. Families Dept. fails Washington audit over $271M for child care; may ask Legislature for more. Seattle's shelter efforts haven't dented the number of homeless camps.

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Episode 18: Nonpartisan Julie Anderson may be Republicans’ best hope for Washington secretary of state Aug 05, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Nonpartisan Julie Anderson may be Republicans’ best hope for Washington secretary of state. Washington’s 8th Congressional District still too close to call for GOP challenger. Dunn concedes in primary bout for Washington’s 8th Congressional District.

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Episode 17: Washington Primary Preliminary Results Aug 03, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporter Brett Davis as they discuss the Washington primary preliminary results!

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Episode 16: Washington Primary Preview Jul 29, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Wealth taxes vs. 'the party is over' in Washington's 36th District Senate primary. Northeast Seattle candidate runs for state Senate on 'ending homelessness,' more affordable housing. Washington's congressional delegation gets failing grade by taxpayer group. Washington State Ferries: ‘Well into the millions’ to repair the crashed Cathlamet.

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Episode 15: Inslee announces plan to get more cops 'on the street A-S-A-P' Jul 22, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Inslee announces plan to get more cops 'on the street A-S-A-P'. Seattle struggles with 'reinventing' policing as crime soars. Spokane Valley opts out of regional shelter planning. Port of Seattle sues Boeing for 'fair share' in lower Duwamish waterway cleanup.

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Episode 14: Republican leadership, Governor’s Office clash on inflation relief for Washingtonians Jul 16, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters Brett Davis and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Republican leadership, Governor’s Office clash on inflation relief for Washingtonians. Starbucks to close 5 Seattle-based stores, including 2 unionized shops.

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Episode 13: Governor’s office rejects fast tax relief for Washingtonians, brings up state income tax Jul 08, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Survey says you need more than $115,000 a year to be happy in Washington state, New study finds breaching Snake River dams would derail decarbonization goals, Sen. Braun calls Gov. Inslee a one-trick pony for not supporting tax relief, Governor’s office rejects fast tax relief for Washingtonians, brings up state income tax.

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Episode 12: Colville asks county for $125,000 to prepare homeless camp Jul 01, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Reporter RaeLynn Ricarte as they discuss: Colville asks county for $125,000 to prepare homeless camp. Spokane council approves shelter lease; two members want urban camping ended. Washington Democrats make dam removal a platform plank. McMorris Rodgers: No more taxpayer funds for crack pipes.

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Episode 11: Inslee declines Biden's request to cut Washington state gas tax Jun 24, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Reporter Brett Davis as they discuss the implications of Roe v. Wade decision on Washington. Inslee declines Biden's request to cut Washington state gas tax. GOP lawmakers eye censure, impeachment for Washington insurance commissioner. Tim Eyman’s victory over five capital gains tax initiatives is complete.

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Episode 10: Washington ordered to pay alleged violent criminal $250 a day Jun 17, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Reporter Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Seattle one of 11 U.S. cities to host FIFA World Cup in 2026, Washington backs off controversial plumbing rule for coffee stands, Redfin layoffs portend grim future for housing market, & Washington ordered to pay alleged violent criminal $250 a day.

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Episode 9: New Washington laws on guns, shooter drills, & abortion Jun 10, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporter Brett Davis as they discuss: A motion was disapproved to require new residential buildings to be built all electric. Washington board allows axe-throwing at businesses with liquor licenses. New Washington laws on guns, shooter drills, abortion take effect Thursday.

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Episode 8: Washington proposes upping cougar kill limit, coinciding with attack on girl Jun 03, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Reporter RaeLynn Ricarte as they discuss: Dead wolves spark debate over Washington state management. Agency baffled by cause of cougar attack. Washington proposes upping cougar kill limit, coinciding with attack on girl.

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Episode 7: Washington Using Drones to Track 'Murder Hornets' May 27, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporters RaeLynn Ricarte, Brett Davis, and Spencer Pauley as they discuss: Edmonds City Council makes camping on public property illegal. Spokane council passes water restrictions over mayor's objections. Washington senator's retirement catches would-be challenger off guard. Washington state scientists to set 1,000 traps for 'murder hornets'.

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Episode 6: King County Executive says Homeowners should pay more property taxes for conservation May 20, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Reporter Spencer Pauley as they discuss: King County Executive: Homeowners should pay more property taxes for conservation. Seattle mayor announces search committee for the next police chief. King County Council wants a cannabis safety taskforce.

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Episode 5: Spokane council approves controversial shelter criteria May 13, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Reporter RaeLynn Ricarte as they discuss: Spokane council approves controversial shelter criteria. Stevens County suit over $130,000 in homeless funds adds a new twist. Ethics complaint filed against Spokane council president. Vet tries to save Spokane war-hero statue from removal.

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Episode 4: Washington taxpayer bill grows to $66,000 for U.N. climate conference trip May 06, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Reporter Brett Rowland as they discuss: Washington taxpayer bill grows to $66,000 for U.N. climate conference trip. Washington State Patrol ends up on wrong end of traffic ticket in Scotland.

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Episode 3: Federal Way moves to prohibit ‘reckless’ use of fentanyl in public spaces Apr 29, 2022

Join The Center Square's Regional Editor Jeremy Lott and Washington Reporter Brett Davis as they discuss: Republicans eye South King County seat for state House pick-up. Federal Way moves to prohibit ‘reckless’ use of fentanyl in public spaces. Washington state code to nix word ‘marijuana’ over concerns it’s racist.

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Episode 2: Washington Senate leader grilled over abandoned police pursuit bill Apr 22, 2022

Sen. Billig says he didn't sever contact with Spokane business group. Rep. McMorris Rodgers wants Biden to view 'failed policies' in Seattle. Washington Senate leader grilled over abandoned police pursuit bill. Wolves continue to be a serious problem for ranchers, says state Rep. Kretz.

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Episode 1: UW professors debate constitutionality of Washington’s capital gains tax Apr 15, 2022

Anti-capital gains tax campaign sues Washington AG for ‘misleading’ ballot title. Washington state gets a ‘C’ on COVID report card. UW professors debate constitutionality of Washington’s capital gains tax.

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