Washington in Focus

Income Tax Fight Sparks New Supreme Court Questions + DCYF Responds To Audit Of Childcare Subsidies

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 21 May 2026 23:00:00 +0000

Newly obtained unredacted communications between Sen. Jamie Pedersen and the Washington Attorney General’s Office are continuing to fuel scrutiny over how the state’s new millionaire’s tax was crafted and defended legally. Center Square reporters TJ Martinell and Carleen Johnson attended a state Supreme Court swearing-in ceremony this week hoping to question Chief Justice Debra Stephens and Gov. Bob Ferguson regarding: The income tax Supreme Court conflicts Attorney General coordination Efforts to block a referendum vote Martinell attempted to ask Stephens about communications showing a former Supreme Court clerk speculating that justices might prefer avoiding a direct constitutional ruling on whether income is property. The broader legal battle centers on: Washington’s long-standing precedent treating income as property Whether a progressive income tax violates the state constitution Potential conflicts involving recently appointed justices Questions are also being raised over whether Justices Theo Angelas and Colleen Melody should recuse themselves due to prior professional ties involving: Gov. Ferguson Sen. Pedersen The Attorney General’s Office

DCYF FACES CONTINUED SCRUTINY OVER DAYCARE PAYMENTS DCYF Secretary Tana Senn gave an update Thursday to the department’s oversight board following a recent audit that identified approximately $37 million in questionable childcare subsidy payments. Senn argued: The audit findings represented extrapolations rather than confirmed fraud Many childcare providers felt unfairly targeted Public scrutiny created stress and anxiety throughout the childcare community According to Senn: “A lot felt like they were under attack probably for no very good reason.” Center Square reporters noted they have spent months investigating providers receiving: Tens of thousands of dollars monthly Large taxpayer subsidies Payments tied to locations where little or no evidence of childcare operations was visible Oversight Board members, including Sen. Nikki Torres, reportedly expressed frustration that the audit discussion received limited time during the meeting.

LONGVIEW SUPERINTENDENT ARRESTED Longview School District Superintendent Karen Cloninger was arrested Thursday morning following an investigation into allegations surrounding the district’s boys basketball program. According to Longview Police: She faces charges including witness tampering Additional allegations involve obstruction and failure to report More charges may be forthcoming involving other district officials Police allege district officials may have: Obstructed the investigation Discouraged staff from cooperating Failed to fully report allegations The case has generated growing outrage from parents and community members in Longview.

WHY THIS MATTERS This impacts: Washington tax policy Supreme Court legitimacy concerns Childcare oversight Public education accountability Government transparency Several of these issues are expected to remain major political stories across Washington heading deeper into 2026. WHAT’S NEXT Constitutional challenges to the income tax continue Questions over judicial recusals may intensify Additional DCYF oversight hearings expected Longview criminal investigation remains active

#WashingtonState #Politics #IncomeTax #DCYF #Longview #SupremeCourt #BreakingNews #Education #Taxes #USNews

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Seattle Democrats Breaks With Mayor Over Business Exodus Concerns + Bridge Price Tag Skyrockets

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 20 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

A second Democratic member of the Seattle City Council is now publicly raising concerns over comments made by Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson regarding businesses and wealthy residents potentially leaving the city and state over rising taxes and regulations. During an exclusive interview with Center Square Seattle reporter Randy Diamond, Seattle City Councilman Rob Saka said he disagrees with dismissing concerns from employers and higher-income residents who say mounting tax burdens and regulations are driving people out of Seattle and Washington. The comments come amid ongoing debate surrounding: Seattle’s economic climate Washington’s new income tax Business relocation concerns Corporate layoffs Economic uncertainty in the region TOP STORY: ROB SAKA SPEAKS OUT Councilman Saka said he is personally concerned about the economic consequences of major employers potentially leaving the city. The discussion focused heavily on: Starbucks’ presence in Seattle Layoffs involving corporate employees Concerns over job growth The broader business environment in Seattle Saka said: “I personally disagree with the approach.” He added: “I do find it gravely concerning when any major employer picks up its crayons and heads to another play box and takes jobs with it.” Saka emphasized: Businesses, workers, and families should all have a voice Leaders should not “dismiss or trivialize” concerns Seattle should focus on collaborative problem solving SECOND DEMOCRAT TO BREAK RANKS Saka is now the second Seattle Democrat in recent weeks to publicly express concern over the mayor’s messaging regarding business and wealth flight. The episode also referenced prior comments from Seattle City Councilman Bob Kettle, who similarly warned against dismissing concerns about: Tax burdens Regulation Economic competitiveness Potential business departures The debate comes as Washington’s new millionaire’s income tax faces: A repeal initiative effort Constitutional legal challenges Growing criticism from some business leaders PIERCE COUNTY RACE HEADS TO BALLOT AFTER COURT WIN The episode also highlighted a major court ruling involving former Seattle Police Officers Guild President Mike Solan, who successfully challenged an attempt to remove him from the Pierce County Council District 7 ballot. Solan argued: The challenge was politically motivated County officials attempted to block his candidacy He met residency requirements to run A judge ultimately ruled: Pierce County’s voter registration requirement created too high a legal barrier Solan’s candidacy can proceed The race now heads toward the August primary. INTERSTATE BRIDGE PROJECT COSTS CONTINUE CLIMBING The episode also examined the growing controversy surrounding the Interstate Bridge Replacement project connecting Washington and Oregon across the Columbia River. Officials confirmed: Project costs have jumped dramatically The estimated price tag now ranges from $13.5 billion to $15.2 billion Tolls will begin before the new bridge is completed Critics, including Rep. John Ley, argue: Light rail expansion is unnecessarily inflating costs Current ridership projections do not justify rail construction Bus transit alternatives would be significantly cheaper WHY THIS MATTERS This impacts: Seattle jobs Business retention Taxes Transportation costs Regional economic growth Washington politics Economic competitiveness, taxation, and infrastructure spending are quickly becoming some of the most important political issues in Washington state. WHAT’S NEXT Seattle business climate debate expected to continue Mike Solan’s campaign now moves toward the August primary Interstate Bridge tolling and cost debates likely to intensify Washington income tax legal and political battles continue HASHTAGS #Seattle #WashingtonState #Politics #Business #Economy #Taxes #Transportation #BreakingNews #Infrastructure #USNews

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Washington Income Tax Repeal Effort Gains Momentum + WA Drought Debate Intensifies as Experts Clash

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 19 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington’s political and economic battles over the newly enacted millionaire’s income tax are intensifying as Let’s Go Washington reports overwhelming public interest in its repeal initiative campaign. During Tuesday’s episode of Washington In Focus Daily, Center Square reporter Carleen Johnson examined: The rapidly expanding repeal effort Business concerns surrounding the income tax Ongoing constitutional questions Washington’s growing drought debate New climate change projections ⚖️ TOP STORY: INCOME TAX REPEAL CAMPAIGN EXPANDS One week after launching the initiative drive to repeal Washington’s newly enacted income tax, Let’s Go Washington says public response has exceeded expectations. The organization is attempting to qualify Initiative to the People 2066-45 for the ballot by gathering: ➡️ At least 309,000 valid voter signatures ➡️ Within a 51-day signature window Organizers reportedly hope to collect closer to: ➡️ 400,000 signatures to account for invalid or duplicate signatures. According to Let’s Go Washington: “They’ve never had a response like this.” 💰 BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION JOINS REPEAL EFFORT The Building Industry Association of Washington has formally partnered with Let’s Go Washington in support of the repeal initiative. BIAW Executive Vice President Greg Lane argued: The tax could negatively impact economic growth Construction businesses structured as LLCs may face unexpected tax burdens The law could eventually expand beyond millionaires Lane warned: “This is only the beginning.” He also argued: Washington families and employers could face broader income taxes in the future The measure threatens long-term economic competitiveness Public frustration surrounding the law remains significant ⚖️ CONSTITUTIONAL QUESTIONS REMAIN Meanwhile, supporters of the income tax continue defending the measure. Economic Opportunity Institute policy associate Anika Klick told Washington In Focus Daily: ➡️ Courts will ultimately determine constitutionality ➡️ The legal dispute centers heavily around whether income is considered property under Washington law ➡️ Supporters are preparing for a potential ballot fight Klick acknowledged: The issue could reach voters either in 2026 or later Legal and political battles are expected to continue 🌧️ DROUGHT DEBATE DIVIDES EXPERTS The episode also highlighted sharp disagreements over Washington’s potential drought emergency. UW atmospheric sciences professor Cliff Mass argued: ➡️ Reservoirs are currently full ➡️ Historical conditions do not support a severe drought scenario ➡️ State drought declarations are being overstated Mass stated: “There’s never been a situation with full reservoirs where agriculture faced devastating impacts.” Meanwhile, Deputy State Climatologist Karin Bumbaco defended the state’s warnings, arguing: Junior water users could still face restrictions Conditions may worsen later in the summer State law allows proactive drought declarations The disagreement reflects broader statewide debates involving: Climate policy Water management Agriculture Environmental forecasting 🌍 CLIMATE CHANGE PROJECTIONS ALSO SHIFTING The episode also referenced new reporting indicating scientists are revising downward some of the most severe long-term climate warming projections previously used in policymaking. According to reporting discussed during the program: Earlier “worst-case” warming scenarios are now viewed as less likely Investments in renewable energy may be contributing to lower projected emissions growth The discussion tied into broader questions surrounding: Washington climate policy Energy costs Cap-and-invest programs State emissions goals 📊 WHY THIS MATTERS This impacts: Taxes Businesses Agriculture Water policy Climate regulation Washington’s economy The income tax repeal effort and broader economic debates are quickly becoming central political issues heading into the 2026 election cycle. 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Signature gathering continues statewide Constitutional lawsuits remain active Water supply monitoring continues into summer Climate and emissions policy debates expected to intensify 🔔 Subscribe for continuing coverage of Washington politics, taxes, agriculture, climate policy, and government accountability. #WashingtonState #IncomeTax #Politics #Climate #Drought #Business #Taxes #Agriculture #BreakingNews #USNews

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Inside Washington’s Growing Political Battle Over Income Tax

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 18 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington’s political and economic battles over the newly enacted millionaire’s income tax continue intensifying as lawmakers, business groups, and advocacy organizations clash over the future of taxation, constitutional law, and economic competitiveness in the state. During Monday’s episode of Washington In Focus Daily, Center Square reporter Carleen Johnson spoke directly with State Senator Jamie Peterson — the sponsor of Washington’s controversial income tax legislation — while also examining growing concerns surrounding business relocation and economic uncertainty. ⚖️ TOP STORY: SENATOR JAMIE PETERSON RESPONDS TO TAX QUESTIONS Johnson questioned Peterson about: Legal challenges to the millionaire’s tax Internal Attorney General’s Office communications The ongoing referendum and initiative fight Concerns surrounding wealthy residents and businesses leaving the state Peterson defended the legislation and argued: ➡️ Consultation between lawmakers and the Attorney General’s Office is normal ➡️ Washington’s constitution already excludes tax measures from referendum authority ➡️ The issue is ultimately constitutional and legal in nature Peterson also maintained that the Washington Supreme Court has already clarified the referendum question surrounding tax legislation. 💰 BUSINESS LEADERS WARN OF GROWING EXODUS The episode also featured comments from Americans for Prosperity Western Regional Director Heather Andrews, who argued Washington’s tax burden is accelerating the departure of employers, entrepreneurs, and high-income residents. According to Andrews: Businesses across multiple industries are considering relocation Washington’s cumulative tax burden has become unsustainable for many employers The income tax represents a “final straw” for some residents and business owners The discussion referenced: Seattle’s JumpStart payroll tax Washington’s capital gains tax The new 9.9% millionaire’s tax Regulatory burdens affecting employers statewide 🗳️ INITIATIVE AND LEGAL CHALLENGES MOVING FORWARD The battle over the income tax is now unfolding on two separate tracks: 1️⃣ Citizen Initiative Campaign Let’s Go Washington is currently gathering signatures for a repeal initiative targeting the income tax. Organizers hope to gather well above the required threshold before the July 2 deadline. 2️⃣ Constitutional Lawsuit A separate legal challenge led by the Citizen Action Defense Fund continues moving through the courts, with former Attorney General Rob McKenna and former Supreme Court Justice Phil Talmadge involved in the case. Opponents argue: The tax violates longstanding constitutional precedent Washington voters have repeatedly rejected income taxes historically The law opens the door to broader future income taxation Supporters argue: The tax applies only to ultra-high earners Washington’s tax system remains regressive Additional revenue is needed for public programs 📚 OTHER MAJOR STORY: SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT RULES DELAYED The episode also covered the Professional Educator Standards Board delaying a vote on proposed rules tied to House Bill 1296 and parental rights disputes in Washington schools. The proposed rule changes could: Make it easier to remove school superintendents Hold districts accountable for compliance with state gender identity policies Increase tensions between state officials and local school boards The board ultimately tabled the vote following concerns involving tribal consultation requirements and ongoing legal uncertainty. 📊 WHY THIS MATTERS This impacts: Taxes Businesses Constitutional law Education policy Washington’s economic future The debates over taxation, government authority, and public policy are expected to remain central political issues throughout 2026. 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Income tax repeal signature gathering continues Constitutional lawsuits move forward Additional business leaders expected to weigh in Education policy disputes likely headed toward further legal review 🔔 Subscribe for continuing coverage of Washington politics, taxes, education policy, government accountability, and economic issues. #WashingtonState #IncomeTax #Politics #Business #Taxes #Education #BreakingNews #Government #Economy #USNews

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Seattle Leaders Clash Over Business Exodus Concerns + Housing First vs. Treatment First Debate

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 15 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, major questions emerge over Washington’s business climate, water rights battles, and the growing debate over homelessness policy across the state. Starbucks founder Howard Schultz publicly criticized Seattle and Washington leadership over what he described as an increasingly anti-business political climate, while a Moses Lake family farm continues a costly nine-year legal battle with the Washington Department of Ecology over water rights. The episode also examines Spokane’s ongoing fight over homelessness policy and whether Washington should move away from a “Housing First” approach toward a “Treatment First” model focused on addiction recovery. 💰 TOP STORY: HOWARD SCHULTZ BLASTS WA BUSINESS CLIMATE Former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz sharply criticized Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and Washington leadership in a Wall Street Journal op-ed this week. Schultz argued: Washington’s tax and regulatory environment is worsening Businesses are increasingly treated as adversaries Rising crime, homelessness, and disorder are harming Seattle’s economy Risk-taking and entrepreneurship are no longer being rewarded The comments follow Schultz’s recent move to Florida and come amid growing concerns about a business and wealthy resident exodus from Washington. Seattle City Councilmember Bob Kettle also warned city leaders against dismissing business relocation concerns, arguing Seattle must remain competitive with nearby cities like Bellevue. ⚖️ MOSES LAKE FARM FAMILY FIGHTS STATE OVER WATER RIGHTS A Grant County farming family is awaiting word on whether the Washington Supreme Court will take up their long-running water rights dispute with the Department of Ecology. Ron and Robin Foti say: The legal battle has lasted more than nine years They have spent nearly $1 million on legal fees and fines The state failed to provide required technical assistance The case has devastated their family and business Ecology argues the family improperly tapped into a vulnerable aquifer in the Odessa region, where groundwater levels have significantly declined over recent decades. The case could ultimately shape future water rights disputes involving farms across Washington state. 🚨 SPOKANE HOMELESSNESS DEBATE SHIFTS TOWARD ‘TREATMENT FIRST’ The episode also explores Spokane’s growing debate over homelessness policy. Local leaders recently attempted to shift Spokane away from a “Housing First” model — which prioritizes subsidized housing without sobriety requirements — toward a “Treatment First” approach focused on addiction recovery and rehabilitation. Supporters of the Treatment First approach argue: Substance abuse is a major driver of chronic homelessness Taxpayers deserve measurable results Housing alone does not solve addiction Critics of Housing First say taxpayers are increasingly frustrated with rising costs and continued homelessness despite years of funding and intervention programs. 📊 WHY THIS MATTERS These stories impact: Business investment Water rights Agriculture Homelessness policy Taxpayer spending Washington’s long-term economic and political direction The debates over taxes, regulation, public safety, and government accountability are expected to remain central issues heading into the 2026 election cycle. 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Washington Supreme Court expected to decide whether to hear the Foti farm case Continued backlash over Seattle and Washington tax policies Spokane leaders expected to continue debating homelessness strategy Additional business and economic concerns likely ahead of the 2026 elections 🔔 Subscribe for continuing coverage of Washington politics, taxes, agriculture, homelessness policy, and economic accountability. #WashingtonState #Politics #Business #Homelessness #Agriculture #Economy #Taxes #WaterRights #BreakingNews #USNews

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EXCLUSIVE: Emails Reveal Strategy Behind Washington Income Tax Push + Concerns Over Capital Flight

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 14 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Newly obtained emails, growing business relocation concerns, and fresh criticism from former Governor Chris Gregoire are intensifying Washington’s ongoing political and legal battle over the state’s new income tax structure. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, Venice AI founder Jesse Proudman explains why he joined Let’s Go Washington’s initiative campaign to repeal the state income tax, while newly released records continue fueling debate over how the tax legislation was crafted and defended behind the scenes. The episode also covers: Concerns over Washington’s business climate Exclusive emails involving the Attorney General’s Office The latest legal developments surrounding the income tax Ongoing uncertainty over Washington’s legislative district maps ahead of the 2026 elections 💰 TOP STORY: ENTREPRENEURS WARN OF BUSINESS EXODUS Venice AI founder Jesse Proudman said Washington’s tax and regulatory climate has become increasingly hostile toward entrepreneurs and startup founders. Proudman argued: Entrepreneurs have increasingly been “villainized” Washington’s layered tax structure discourages investment The new income tax was “the straw that broke the camel’s back” He also warned many wealthy residents and business owners are actively considering leaving Washington for states with lower taxes and more predictable business environments. 📊 FORMER GOV. GREGOIRE CRITICIZES STATE SPENDING Former Democratic Governor Chris Gregoire also raised concerns during the Association of Washington Business spring summit. Gregoire argued: Washington’s state budget has grown too rapidly The state faces a “spending problem,” not a revenue problem Businesses need greater predictability and stability She also criticized the increasing number of taxes, regulations, and policy changes affecting employers statewide. ⚖️ EXCLUSIVE EMAILS FUEL LEGAL DEBATE The Center Square obtained nearly 1,000 pages of emails involving: Sen. Jamie Pedersen The Washington Attorney General’s Office Solicitor General Noah Purcell The emails discuss: Referendum concerns Legal strategy surrounding the income tax Anticipated Washington Supreme Court challenges One internal email referenced the Washington Supreme Court as “as favorable a venue as we’re likely to get,” fueling criticism from opponents of the tax. 🗳️ REDISTRICTING CHAOS COULD IMPACT 2026 ELECTIONS The episode also highlights uncertainty surrounding Washington’s legislative district maps after a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling involving Louisiana redistricting. A federal judge is now considering whether Washington’s revised legislative maps should be reverted back to their prior configuration before the August primary. The decision could affect: Dozens of legislative candidates Filing locations District boundaries Election administration statewide 🧠 WHY THIS MATTERS These issues impact: Taxes Elections Business investment Economic growth Constitutional law Washington’s long-term political direction The debate over taxes, redistricting, and state governance is expected to remain central heading into the 2026 election cycle. 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Signature gathering continues for the income tax repeal initiative Additional public records may still be released Washington Supreme Court challenges continue Federal judge expected to rule soon on legislative district maps 🔔 Subscribe for continuing coverage of Washington politics, taxes, elections, business climate issues, and government accountability. #WashingtonState #IncomeTax #Politics #Business #Economy #BreakingNews #Taxes #PublicPolicy #Election2026 #USNews

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Exclusive: Hidden Daycare Grant Recipient List Released + Tech Leader Says Income Tax Will Hit All

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington state officials have released a complete list of daycare providers who received nearly $58 million in childcare facility grants after questions emerged over previously unnamed recipients. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we examine the newly released childcare grant data, the growing debate over parental rights and school district compliance with House Bill 1296, and renewed concerns from business leaders surrounding Washington’s income tax and economic climate. 💰 EXCLUSIVE: FULL DAYCARE GRANT RECIPIENT LIST RELEASED The Washington Department of Commerce provided The Center Square with a complete list of childcare providers awarded nearly $58 million through the state’s Early Learning Facilities program. The grants were promoted by Governor Bob Ferguson as a major investment intended to expand childcare capacity across Washington. However, the initial public release omitted the names of roughly 20 grant recipients, identifying them only as “family home facilities” without additional details. Following questions from media outlets and lawmakers, state officials later released the full provider list. ⚖️ QUESTIONS OVER TRANSPARENCY Critics argued: Taxpayer-funded grant recipients should be publicly identifiable State agencies improperly applied privacy protections intended for identity theft prevention Greater transparency is needed regarding large childcare subsidy programs The Department of Commerce later stated it had received updated legal guidance and subsequently released the full list of provider names and locations. 📚 SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS COULD FACE DISCIPLINE Washington’s Professional Educator Standards Board is considering rule changes tied to House Bill 1296 that could allow disciplinary action against school superintendents found out of compliance with state education directives. The debate centers on: Parent notification policies Student gender identity issues Local school district authority Compliance with state law versus federal guidance Several districts, including Kennewick, have publicly challenged portions of state policy involving pronouns, bathrooms, and parental notification. 💼 BUSINESS LEADERS WARN OF ECONOMIC IMPACT At a press conference launching Washington’s income tax repeal initiative, Venice AI founder Jesse Proud argued the state’s new income tax structure disproportionately impacts entrepreneurs, startup founders, and small business owners. Proud said: Washington has become increasingly hostile to business Entrepreneurs are being penalized through tax policy Some business owners are actively considering relocation The income tax repeal initiative campaign officially launched this week and signature gathering is expected to continue statewide. 🧠 WHY THIS MATTERS These issues impact: Taxpayer transparency Education policy Parental rights Business climate Washington’s long-term economic direction 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Further review of newly released daycare grant data PESB vote expected this week Continued legal and political battles over HB 1296 Ongoing income tax repeal initiative campaign 🔔 Subscribe for continuing coverage of Washington politics, taxes, education policy, business climate issues, and government accountability. #WashingtonState #BreakingNews #Politics #Taxes #Education #ParentalRights #Business #GovernmentSpending #PublicPolicy #UUSNews

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Income Tax Repeal Initiative Officially Launches & Parental Rights Issues Escalate in Washington

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington’s political battles continue escalating as a new initiative to repeal the state’s income tax officially moves forward, a public disclosure complaint targets podcaster Brandi Kruse, and state education officials consider new rules that critics say could pressure school superintendents over parental rights policies. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down the latest developments surrounding Washington’s new income tax, the growing debate over political speech and journalism, and a controversial proposal involving public school leadership and compliance with House Bill 1296. 💰 INCOME TAX REPEAL INITIATIVE MOVES FORWARD Let’s Go Washington officially unveiled a new initiative aimed at repealing Washington’s recently enacted income tax and prohibiting future income taxes without constitutional changes. Key details: Initiative number: ➡️ IP 26-645 Proposal would: ➡️ Repeal the current income tax ➡️ Ban future income taxes ➡️ Define “income” in state code to limit reinterpretation efforts The initiative follows the passage of Senate Bill 6346, which created a 9.9% tax on income above $1 million. Supporters argue Washington voters have repeatedly rejected income taxes in prior elections and point to longstanding constitutional debates surrounding taxation and property rights. ⚖️ PDC COMPLAINT FILED AGAINST BRANDI KRUSE A watchdog organization has filed a complaint with Washington’s Public Disclosure Commission against podcaster Brandi Kruse and Let’s Go Washington, alleging undisclosed political advocacy tied to ballot initiatives. Kruse denies the allegations. The controversy raises broader questions involving: Journalism vs political advocacy Independent media and podcasting Political speech protections Public disclosure rules for influencers and commentators The discussion also touches on prior legal precedent involving talk radio hosts and political commentary in Washington state. 📚 SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS COULD FACE DISCIPLINE Washington’s Professional Educator Standards Board is considering rule changes tied to House Bill 1296 and parental rights policies in public schools. Critics argue the proposed changes could allow state officials to: Discipline school superintendents Remove educational leaders for “noncompliance” Override local school board authority The debate centers on: Gender identity policies Parent notification rules Local control vs state oversight Compliance with state education directives Several school districts, including Kennewick, have already challenged state guidance involving parental notification and student gender policies. 🧠 WHY THIS MATTERS These issues impact: Tax policy Parental rights Local school governance Political speech and journalism The future direction of Washington state policy 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Signature gathering begins for the income tax repeal initiative PDC complaint review process moves forward State education board vote expected this week Ongoing legal and political battles likely ahead 🔔 Subscribe for continuing coverage of Washington state politics, taxes, education policy, parental rights, and government accountability. #WashingtonState #IncomeTax #BreakingNews #ParentalRights #Politics #Education #Taxes #PublicPolicy #BrandiKruse #USNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 5.11.26 | Homeless Agency Audit Concerns & Daycare Fraud Claims Grow

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 11 May 2026 23:00:00 +0000

A forensic audit revealed $13 million unaccounted for and a $45 million deficit at the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, prompting calls to immediately halt funding until a full accounting is completed. At the same time, new concerns are emerging over millions in taxpayer-funded daycare subsidies — with some recipients remaining unnamed. 💰 TOP STORY: $13M MISSING, FUNDING UNDER FIRE Audit findings: $13 million unaccounted for $45 million deficit Total funding since 2019: Over $500 million 📢 New demand: ➡️ Suspend funding until full forensic accounting ⚖️ CALLS FOR INVESTIGATION Leaders pushing for: ➡️ Full forensic accounting (not just audit) ➡️ Access to financial records ➡️ Potential law enforcement referral if fraud found 🔥 GROWING BACKLASH Critics say: ➡️ “Foundation has crumbled” ➡️ No more taxpayer dollars until answers 📊 Concern: ➡️ Lack of transparency 📊 HOMELESSNESS STILL RISING Latest available data: ➡️ 16,800+ individuals experiencing homelessness ➡️ 26% increase in recent years ➡️ Despite massive spending 🚨 SECOND STORY: DAYCARE FUNDING QUESTIONS State awarded: ➡️ $56M+ in childcare grants Issue: ➡️ Some recipients unnamed 📢 Concern: ➡️ Transparency and oversight ⚠️ $37M DISCREPANCY RAISES MORE QUESTIONS State audit found: ➡️ $37 million in questionable payments 📊 Key issue: ➡️ No full investigation launched 🧠 BIG PICTURE: WHERE IS THE MONEY GOING? Taxpayer dollars: ➡️ Billions spent across programs ➡️ Accountability concerns growing 💸 WHY THIS MATTERS TO YOU This impacts: Your tax dollars Public safety Government accountability ➡️ Major questions about spending and oversight 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Potential forensic accounting Public records requests underway Ongoing scrutiny from lawmakers 🔔 Subscribe for real reporting on taxes, spending, and the policies impacting your money #WashingtonState #Seattle #BreakingNews #TaxpayerMoney #Homelessness #GovernmentSpending #Accountability #Politics #PublicPolicy #USNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 5.07.26 | WA Jobs at Risk? Seattle Councilman Speaks Out On City Policy

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 7 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

A new business survey shows nearly 1 in 4 employers are considering leaving the state, while a separate audit reveals $13 million missing and a $45 million deficit in a major homelessness agency. What’s driving these trends — and what does it mean for jobs, taxes, and your cost of living? In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down the biggest economic and policy stories shaping the state right now. 💼 TOP STORY: BUSINESSES MAY LEAVE WA New survey from Association of Washington Business: 1 in 4 employers considering relocation Sharp shift from earlier this year: Confidence in economy declining Expansion plans dropping 📊 Key concerns: High taxes Regulatory pressure Economic uncertainty ➡️ Impact: Jobs at risk Investment slowing Long-term economic consequences 💰 TAX POLICY IN THE SPOTLIGHT Growing concern over: State tax direction Pending income tax Business leaders report: Increased consideration of relocation ⚖️ PUSHBACK: DO TAXES REALLY DRIVE PEOPLE OUT? Advocacy groups argue: No clear evidence wealthy residents are leaving Others cite: Data from high-tax states showing outmigration trends 📊 Debate continues: ➡️ Are taxes driving business decisions? 🚨 SECOND STORY: $13M MISSING, $45M DEFICIT Forensic audit of regional homelessness authority finds: $13 million unaccounted for $45 million deficit 📢 Result: ➡️ Calls for accountability and transparency 🧠 SHIFT IN STRATEGY? Growing argument: ➡️ Homelessness crisis tied to: Addiction Mental health Some pushing: ➡️ Focus on treatment + accountability 🔥 REAL VOICES FROM THE GROUND Testimony highlights: Concerns about current approach Calls for stronger intervention and accountability 💸 BIG PICTURE: MONEY, POLICY & RESULTS This isn’t just politics — it affects: Your taxes Your job market Public safety Cost of living ➡️ Economic pressure + policy challenges colliding 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Lawmakers respond to business survey Homelessness agency faces scrutiny Potential policy shifts ahead 🔔 Subscribe for real reporting on taxes, jobs, and the policies impacting your money #WashingtonState #BreakingNews #Economy #Jobs #Taxes #CostOfLiving #Homelessness #PublicPolicy #Business #USNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 5.06.26 | Businesses Eye Exit From WA — New Survey Raises Alarm

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 6 May 2026 23:00:00 +0000

A new business survey reveals a growing number of employers are considering leaving the state, citing taxes, regulations, and overall business climate. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down the biggest stories impacting families, businesses, and policy across the state. 💼 TOP STORY: BUSINESSES MAY LEAVE WA New survey: Nearly 1 in 4 employers considering relocation Key concerns: High taxes Regulatory burden Economic outlook 📊 Impact: ➡️ Jobs and investment at risk ⚖️ FOSTER CARE LAWSUIT MOVES FORWARD Federal case: Against WA Department of Children, Youth & Families Issue: ➡️ Foster parents challenged over policy requirements 📢 Update: ➡️ Court allows lawsuit to proceed 📚 WA RANKS LOW IN FINANCIAL LITERACY WalletHub report: Washington ranks poorly Key stat: ➡️ Only 2.7% of students guaranteed personal finance course 📊 Issue: ➡️ No statewide requirement 🧠 WHY THIS MATTERS Affects: Workforce readiness Long-term financial stability 💸 BIG PICTURE: MONEY & POLICY COLLIDE Business climate concerns Education gaps Ongoing policy debates ➡️ All impacting: Families Employers Future growth 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Deeper dive into business survey Potential policy responses Continued legal developments 🔔 Subscribe for more Washington policy, taxpayer impact reporting, and economic coverage #WashingtonState #BreakingNews #Economy #SmallBusiness #Taxes #CostOfLiving #Politics #PublicPolicy #USNews #Business

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Washington In Focus Daily | 5.05.26 | Homeless Program Under Fire + Income Tax Vote Blocked

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 6 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

A major homelessness agency in King County is facing possible shutdown after an audit revealed millions of dollars unaccounted for. At the same time, a separate legal battle over Washington’s new income tax continues after a major court ruling. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down both stories and what they mean for taxpayers. 💰 TOP STORY: MILLIONS MISSING King County Regional Homelessness Authority: $44.7 million deficit ~$13 million unaccounted for 📊 Audit findings: ➡️ Serious concerns over spending and oversight ⚖️ COULD THE AGENCY BE SHUT DOWN? King County Council: Considering vote to dismantle the agency Possibility: Vote could be bipartisan / unanimous 📢 Key issue: ➡️ Accountability for taxpayer dollars 🚨 WHAT THE AUDIT FOUND No confirmed fraud BUT Missing funds tied to services Leadership under scrutiny 📊 Concern: ➡️ Where did the money go? 🧠 WHY THIS MATTERS Hundreds of millions spent in recent years Homelessness outcomes: Not improving as expected 📢 Core question: ➡️ Are taxpayer dollars being used effectively? ⚖️ SECOND MAJOR STORY: INCOME TAX FIGHT WA Supreme Court: Blocked referendum effort Reason: “Necessity clause” attached to bill 📊 Result: ➡️ Voters cannot weigh in (for now) 🗳️ WHAT’S NEXT Opponents: Considering initiative campaign Legal fight continues: ➡️ Could return to court 💸 THE BIG PICTURE This episode connects: 💰 Government spending ⚖️ Legal decisions 🗳️ Voter power ➡️ All impacting Washington taxpayers 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Council vote outcome on agency Continued audit scrutiny Income tax legal challenge moving forward 🔔 Subscribe for more taxpayer-focused reporting, investigations, and Washington policy coverage #BreakingNews #WashingtonState #TaxpayerMoney #GovernmentSpending #Accountability #Politics #IncomeTax #PublicPolicy #USNews #Investigation

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Washington In Focus Daily | 5.04.26 | Income Tax Vote BLOCKED & Gas Prices SPIKE

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 4 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

From a blocked income tax vote to record gas prices, major decisions are impacting taxpayers across the state. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down the biggest legal, political, and economic stories shaping your wallet and your vote. ⚖️ TOP STORY: INCOME TAX REFERENDUM BLOCKED WA Supreme Court: Rejected appeal to allow referendum Law: 9.9% tax on income over $1M Reason: Ruled “necessary for state government” 📢 Impact: ➡️ Voters will NOT get a direct say (for now) 🗳️ WHAT’S NEXT Groups say: Initiative effort likely coming Debate continues: ➡️ Whether voters should decide tax policy 🚔 SHERIFF RACE DRAMA Candidate filing week underway Court ruling: Allowed sheriff candidate to run Law challenged: Would allow removal based on conduct/speech 📢 Key issue: ➡️ Who decides eligibility — voters or the state? ⚖️ ABORTION PILL RULING U.S. Supreme Court: Issued temporary stay Debate: Access vs safety concerns 📊 Washington’s role: ➡️ State positioned at center of national fight ⛽ GAS PRICES SURGE WA average: $5.67 per gallon Near record highs 📊 Policy impact: ➡️ CO2 (Climate Commitment Act) tax: Adds ~$0.52/gallon ➡️ Combined taxes: Over $1 per gallon 💰 WHY PRICES ARE SO HIGH State gas tax: Among highest in U.S. Climate policies: Increasing fuel costs 📢 Key takeaway: ➡️ State policies play a major role in what you pay 🔥 THE BIG PICTURE This episode connects: 💰 Taxes 🗳️ Voter access ⚖️ Court decisions ⛽ Cost of living ➡️ All impacting Washington residents right now 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Possible income tax initiative Ongoing legal battles Continued pressure on gas prices 🔔 Subscribe for more taxpayer-focused reporting, legal breakdowns, and Washington policy coverage #WashingtonState #IncomeTax #GasPrices #BreakingNews #CostOfLiving #Politics #TaxpayerMoney #SupremeCourt #USNews #Government

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Washington In Focus Daily | 5.01.26 | Pension Fund Raid Sparks Lawsuit & Seattle Landmark Closes

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 1 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

From a judge blocking a controversial law to a lawsuit over billions in pension funds, major questions are being raised about government power, taxpayer money, and your rights. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down three major stories impacting voters, law enforcement, and the state economy. ⚖️ TOP STORY: JUDGE BLOCKS SHERIFF LAW (SB 5974) Second lawsuit filed against controversial sheriff bill Judge Christine Schaller: Grants preliminary injunction 📊 Impact: ➡️ Candidates can still run for office ➡️ Law temporarily blocked before elections 🔥 Key issue: Does the law violate: Constitutional rights Voter choice 🗳️ WHY THIS MATTERS Filing deadline was days away Without the ruling: Candidates would be barred from running 📢 Judge’s reasoning: ➡️ Blocking candidacy = serious constitutional harm ⚠️ STATE PUSHES BACK Attorney General’s office: Asking Supreme Court to overturn the injunction immediately 📊 Timeline: ➡️ Decision could come within days 💰 PENSION FUND LAWSUIT (YOUR MONEY) Class action filed over: $4 BILLION transfer from law enforcement pension fund 📊 State’s position: Fund is “overfunded” Money used to: Backfill budget gaps 🚨 WHAT RETIREES SAY Lawsuit claims: Fund is being raided Creates risk for: Retirees Survivors 📢 Impact: ➡️ Thousands of retired officers and firefighters affected 💸 TAXPAYER & TRUST ISSUE Raises major concerns: Can the state redirect pension funds? What protections exist for retirement systems? 🏙️ SEATTLE WARNING SIGN Columbia Tower Club shuts down Downtown office vacancy: 38% (highest among major U.S. cities) 📉 Signals: Economic slowdown Reduced business activity 🧠 BIGGER PICTURE Across all stories: ➡️ Laws being challenged in court ➡️ Billions in public funds under scrutiny ➡️ Economic warning signs emerging 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Supreme Court could step in on sheriff law Pension lawsuit moves forward Continued economic pressure in Seattle 🔔 Subscribe for more taxpayer-focused reporting, legal breakdowns, and economic coverage #BreakingNews #WashingtonState #TaxpayerMoney #CourtRuling #Politics #Pension #Economy #LegalNews #USNews #PublicPolicy

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.30.26 | Sheriff Law Blocked + SCOTUS Redistricting Ruling Impacts WA

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

From a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on redistricting to a Washington judge blocking a controversial law, major legal developments are raising new questions about who controls elections and political power. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down how these rulings could impact Washington State and beyond. 🗺️ TOP STORY: SUPREME COURT REDISTRICTING RULING U.S. Supreme Court ruled in a racial gerrymandering case out of Louisiana Decision limits how race can be used in: Drawing congressional districts 📊 Key takeaway: District maps cannot be primarily based on race ⚖️ WHY THIS MATTERS FOR WASHINGTON Washington has faced similar redistricting issues Past district maps were challenged over: racial gerrymandering concerns 📢 Potential impact: Could influence: Future district boundaries Ongoing political races Representation across the state 🏛️ POLITICAL IMPACT: DISTRICT SHAKEUPS Redistricting has already: Shifted candidates into new districts Forced political “musical chairs” 📊 Example: Lawmakers relocating to run in different districts Changes affecting election outcomes ⚖️ SECOND STORY: SHERIFF LAW BLOCKED IN COURT Thurston County judge issued a preliminary injunction Blocks key parts of Senate Bill 5974 📊 Impact: Prevents enforcement of: Certain candidate requirements Social media-based decertification ⚠️ Judge signals: Law may be unconstitutional 🧠 WHY THIS MATTERS Raises questions about: Free speech rights Voter control over elections Role of unelected boards 📢 BIGGER PICTURE: WHO CONTROLS ELECTIONS? Across these stories, one issue stands out: ➡️ Who decides: District boundaries? Who can run for office? Who stays in office? Courts are now playing a major role in answering those questions. 💰 FINAL NOTE: INCOME TAX REFERENDUM FIGHT Washington Supreme Court is reviewing: Whether voters can challenge the new income tax 📊 Issue: Referendum blocked due to a “necessity clause” ⚠️ Key question: Will taxpayers get a vote on the income tax? 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Potential impacts from Supreme Court ruling Appeals expected in sheriff law case Decision pending on income tax referendum 🔔 Subscribe for more legal analysis, election coverage, and taxpayer-focused reporting #SupremeCourt #Redistricting #Gerrymandering #WashingtonState #BreakingNews #Politics #Elections #LegalNews #PublicPolicy #USNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.29.26 | Gas Tax at Work? $500K to Activists + Sheriff Bill Lawsuit

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

From gas tax dollars to court battles, major questions are being raised about how your money is being spent in Washington State. In today’s episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down multiple stories tied to government spending, taxes, and economic impact. 💰 TOP STORY: $500K IN TAXPAYER FUNDS TO ACTIVIST GROUP Nearly $500,000 in Climate Commitment Act (CCA) funding awarded Funded by: Gas tax increases (50+ cents per gallon impact) 📊 Controversy: Funds used for: “Community storytelling” content Critics say: Messaging targeted farmers and agriculture ⚠️ Additional concern: State Department of Health logo used in content Questions about: Oversight Proper use of taxpayer dollars ⛽ WHERE THE MONEY COMES FROM CCA funded in part by: Higher fuel costs paid by drivers 📢 Key issue: Are taxpayers funding: Policy goals Or political messaging? ⚖️ SECOND STORY: SHERIFF LAW HEADS TO COURT Emergency hearing underway Law allows: Removal of elected sheriffs through decertification 📊 Concern: Could impact: Voter choice Free speech protections 🧾 THIRD STORY: COST OF LEGAL BATTLES Multiple lawsuits tied to: New laws State policies 💰 Key question: How much are these legal fights costing taxpayers? 🌾 FOURTH STORY: FARMERS FEEL THE IMPACT Rising costs tied to: Fuel prices Regulations Labor requirements 📉 Reported impact: Farms closing across the state Increased financial pressure on agriculture 📢 WHY THIS MATTERS TO YOU This is about your money: Gas prices funding state programs Taxpayer dollars funding grants Legal battles costing millions Economic pressure impacting jobs and food supply 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Court decisions expected soon Ongoing scrutiny of CCA funding Continued debate over state spending priorities 🔔 Subscribe for more taxpayer-focused reporting, economic analysis, and policy coverage #TaxpayerMoney #WashingtonState #GasPrices #GovernmentSpending #BreakingNews #PublicPolicy #Economy #Politics #USNews #Agriculture

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.28.26 | Income Tax Fallout, Capital Flight Fears, GEO Lawsuit

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Washington’s new income tax is already triggering serious economic concerns, with business owners warning it could drive jobs, investment, and tax revenue out of the state. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down how new tax policy decisions could directly impact your wallet, your job market, and the state economy. 💰 TOP STORY: TAXES DRIVING BUSINESSES OUT? A Washington-based investment firm leader says: His business paid $300,000–$350,000 in state taxes last year The new income tax could be the “final blow” 📊 Key concern: Businesses structured as pass-through entities could be taxed heavily Even if owners are not traditional “millionaires” 📉 ECONOMIC IMPACT WARNING Concerns about: Capital leaving the state Reduced business investment Fewer new companies forming 📢 Key claim: Investors may avoid Washington due to: Policy uncertainty Rising tax burden 🧾 INCOME TAX DETAILS 9.9% tax on income above $1 million Applies starting with: 2028 earnings Paid in 2029 ⚠️ Critics warn: Could expand beyond current thresholds over time 🗳️ VOTERS & LEGAL BATTLE Case heading to the Washington State Supreme Court Challenge focuses on: Whether voters should have been allowed a referendum Major question: Who decides tax policy — voters or courts? 💸 MORE TAXPAYER IMPACT STORIES 🏕️ Campgrounds Closing Budget cuts forcing closures of: Multiple state campgrounds Officials cite: $8 million reduction (20% cut) 📊 Impact: Fewer public services despite ongoing tax increases ⚖️ STATE LAWSUIT COSTS New legal actions announced by the state Raises questions about: Cost to taxpayers Allocation of state resources 📢 WHY THIS MATTERS This is about your money: Taxes affecting: Businesses Jobs Investment State spending impacting: Public services Infrastructure Recreation access 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Supreme Court hearing this week Continued debate over tax policy Ongoing economic impact to watch 🔔 Subscribe for more taxpayer-focused reporting, economic analysis, and breaking policy news #IncomeTax #WashingtonState #Taxes #CostOfLiving #Economy #SmallBusiness #TaxpayerMoney #BreakingNews #Politics #USNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.27.26 | AG Pressed On Income Tax Documents & Daycare Fraud Allegations

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Today’s Washington In Focus Daily covers major legal, political, and taxpayer accountability stories across Washington State. Following the release of nearly 1,000 pages of internal records, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown is responding to questions about: Communication between his office and lawmakers Role in shaping the income tax legislation Claims about whether the process followed standard legal guidance ⚖️ The AG says: Advising lawmakers is common and appropriate Denies claims that the office worked to bypass voters 📊 Critics argue: Some communications go beyond legal advice Raise questions about process and transparency AG FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST GROCERY GIANTS The Attorney General announced a lawsuit against: Safeway / Albertsons / Haggen (same ownership group) 📢 Allegations: Concerns over “buy one, get one free” promotions Claims of deceptive advertising practices $56M IN DAYCARE FUNDING — QUESTIONS REMAIN Nearly $56 million in grants awarded Funding aimed at expanding childcare capacity statewide ⚠️ Key concerns raised: Lack of transparency about who is receiving funds Ongoing questions tied to: Oversight Accountability Previous fraud concerns 📊 State response: Agencies say protections exist for sensitive information Additional details require public records requests SHERIFF DECERTIFICATION LAW HEADS TO COURT Emergency hearing scheduled in Thurston County Lawsuit filed by multiple Eastern Washington sheriffs ⚖️ Core issue: Whether an appointed board can remove an elected sheriff 📊 Legal concerns include: Free speech and association rights Voter authority vs state oversight Potential long-term implications for elected officials 📢 WHY THIS MATTERS Combines major issues impacting Washington residents: Taxes Consumer protection Government spending Public safety leadership Raises broader questions about: Transparency Accountability Role of voters in government decisions 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Continued legal challenges on multiple fronts Court decisions expected soon on sheriff law Ongoing reporting into tax policy and public spending 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive investigations, legal updates, and policy coverage #BreakingNews #WashingtonState #PublicPolicy #LegalNews #GovernmentSpending #IncomeTax #ConsumerProtection #Politics #USNews #Accountability

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.23.26 | WA Income Tax Legal Issues & Train Project Faces Soaring Costs

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

Today’s Washington In Focus Daily covers two major developments shaping Washington State: For the first time since exclusive documents were revealed, former Attorney General Rob McKenna reacts to: Nearly 1,000 pages of internal communications Collaboration between lawmakers and the Attorney General’s office Efforts to craft a bill that could challenge long-standing constitutional precedent ⚖️ McKenna raises key concerns about: The role of the AG’s office in drafting legislation Whether the strategy was designed to force a Supreme Court decision The long history of voters rejecting income tax proposals 📊 Additional developments: Ongoing legal challenge backed by Citizen Action Defense Fund Involvement from attorney Jackson Maynard and former Justice Phil Talmadge Debate over whether voters are being kept out of the process 🗣️ Reaction from lawmakers: Concerns raised about transparency and process Calls for accountability following the document release Response from the Attorney General’s office defending its actions The planned Interstate Bridge replacement between Washington and Oregon: Cost estimate now at $14.4 BILLION Timeline could stretch toward 2045 Project may be built in phases 🚧 Key concerns: Rising costs tied to light rail expansion Questions about ridership demand vs cost Debate over whether a simpler design could save billions 💰 Financial impact: Early tolling expected — even before completion Drivers could pay $1.50 to $4.50 per trip Concerns about traffic shifting and revenue shortfalls 📊 Comparison raised: Other states building similar bridges without rail at lower cost 📢 WHY THIS MATTERS Could reshape Washington’s tax system and legal landscape Raises major questions about government process and transparency Impacts taxpayers through both tax policy and infrastructure costs 📅 WHAT’S NEXT Income tax case may move toward the Washington Supreme Court Bridge project continues to evolve amid cost and design debates Political and public response expected to intensify 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive reporting, investigations, and policy breakdowns #BreakingNews #Exclusive #IncomeTax #WashingtonState #Infrastructure #PublicPolicy #Politics #LegalNews #TaxDebate #USNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.22.26 | WA Income Tax Strategy Exposed + Climate Funds Under Fire

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Today’s Washington In Focus Daily dives into one of the biggest political and policy stories unfolding in Washington State. Income Tax Documents EXPOSED Newly obtained internal records reveal how Washington’s income tax proposal may have been crafted behind the scenes: Nearly 1,000 pages of documents from the Attorney General’s office Discussions about overturning nearly 100 years of legal precedent Strategy on how to get the case before the State Supreme Court Questions about whether the policy was designed to expand beyond high earners 🎙️ Featuring reporting from TJ Martinell and Tim Clouser breaking down: The true purpose of the bill, according to internal communications The role of the Attorney General’s office in shaping the legislation How this could impact ongoing lawsuits and future tax policy ⚖️ Legal Battle Intensifies: A new filing from Let’s Go Washington cites these documents in a case challenging the law Debate over the use of an emergency clause to block a voter referendum Potential path to the Washington Supreme Court 🏛️ Political Reaction: Senate Minority Leader John Braun responds, raising concerns about: The legislative process Voter access and transparency The long-term implications for taxpayers Climate Funds Under Scrutiny A new report raises questions about how millions in climate-related tax dollars are being spent: Over $8.5 million distributed across 21 projects Findings suggest only one project directly reduced pollution Many programs focused on community outreach vs measurable results 📊 Examples discussed: Funding allocated toward education and outreach programs Projects with limited or no measurable air quality improvements Ongoing debate between researchers and the Department of Ecology ⚖️ Key questions raised: Are taxpayer-funded programs delivering real results? How should success be measured in environmental policy? Should there be more accountability and oversight? 📊 Why This Matters Could reshape Washington’s tax system for decades Raises questions about government transparency and voter input Impacts debates on climate policy, spending, and accountability 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive reporting, investigations, and policy breakdowns #BreakingNews #Exclusive #IncomeTax #WashingtonState #TaxDebate #ClimatePolicy #GovernmentSpending #LegalNews #PublicPolicy #USNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.21.26 | Exclusive: Inside The Plan To Expand The Income Tax

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

🚨 EXCLUSIVE REPORT — Newly obtained documents are raising major questions about the intent behind Washington State’s new income tax and the legal strategy surrounding it.

In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily:

Nearly 1,000 pages of internal communications reveal discussions between lawmakers and the Attorney General’s office
Documents suggest the tax was designed to prompt a legal challenge to long-standing court precedent
The case centers on whether income is considered property under Washington’s constitution

🎙️ Plus: Exclusive interview with attorney Jackson Maynard, who breaks down:

What these documents reveal about the legal strategy behind the tax
How they could impact the ongoing court challenge
Why this case could have long-term implications for taxpayers statewide

📊 Key takeaways:

Legal memos outline arguments aimed at overturning nearly 100 years of precedent
Internal discussions include strategy on how the law could be structured to reach the courts
The outcome could determine whether income taxes in Washington expand beyond high earners

⚖️ Why this matters:

The case could reshape tax policy across Washington State
A ruling could open the door to broader income taxation in the future
The debate raises broader questions about lawmaking, legal strategy, and voter input

📢 What’s next:

Ongoing lawsuits could soon bring this issue before the Washington Supreme Court
Legal arguments may now include insights revealed in these documents
The decision could impact taxpayers, businesses, and future legislation

🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive reporting, investigations, and policy analysis.

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.20.26 | WA Income Tax Could Expand to Lower Earners, Records Show

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

Newly obtained public records are shedding light on how Washington’s new income tax law was developed — and what lawmakers and legal advisors were discussing behind the scenes. In this Washington In Focus Daily report, we break down: What nearly 1,000 pages of internal documents reveal How the income tax legislation was crafted and debated The ongoing legal challenges and referendum efforts Why the issue is becoming a top concern for voters

📊 Key developments: A legal challenge already underway in court A possible statewide vote depending on upcoming decisions Growing focus on affordability and tax policy on the campaign trail ⚖️ Supporters say the policy helps address economic imbalance and fund key programs. Critics argue it could have broader impacts and raise long-term concerns about taxation in Washington.

📅 With a major court decision approaching and political momentum building, this issue is expected to remain front and center.

🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth coverage on taxes, policy, and Washington state news.

#IncomeTax #WashingtonState #BreakingNews #PublicPolicy #TaxPolicy #Economy #Politics #Finance #USNews #LegalNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.17.26 | Income Tax Debate, Ballot Box Mystery & Property Right Lawsuit

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

A major debate is unfolding in Washington State — combining income tax policy, government authority, and a high-stakes property rights lawsuit. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down two major developments: 💰 Income Tax Debate A new report highlights how lower income tax rates in Idaho led to increased revenue Questions about Washington’s new 9.9% income tax on high earners Ongoing concerns about whether tax policy could impact economic growth and taxpayers long-term ⚖️ Property Rights Lawsuit A multi-generational ranch family is facing millions in fines and compliance costs The dispute centers on wetlands regulations and water rights The family argues their rights are being decided by an administrative judge instead of a jury Legal experts say this case could have major constitutional implications

📊 Key issues: Can higher taxes impact economic behavior and revenue? Do property owners have the right to a jury trial in regulatory disputes? Are administrative agencies gaining too much authority over private land?

🚨 What’s next: A major hearing is scheduled as the case moves forward Potential appeals could reach the Washington Supreme Court — or beyond

🔔 Subscribe for in-depth coverage of taxes, legal battles, and policy shaping Washington State. #IncomeTax #PropertyRights #WashingtonState #TaxDebate #LegalNews #Economy #LandUse #CourtCase #BreakingNews #PublicPolicy

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.16.26 | Income Tax Debate Intensifies & Lawsuit Plaintiff Speaks Out

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington’s proposed income tax is sparking a major debate — with supporters highlighting benefits for working families and critics warning of broader economic impacts. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down both sides of the argument, including: Expansion of the Working Families Tax Credit Claims of tax relief for hundreds of thousands of households Concerns about misleading benefit estimates The impact on small businesses and pass-through income A growing legal challenge involving business owners and advocacy groups What’s next as the case heads toward the courts We also hear directly from: Policy advocates supporting the tax Lawmakers raising concerns about cost and implementation A Washington small business owner joining the lawsuit

📊 Key questions: Do the benefits match the overall tax impact? Who actually pays — and who benefits? What could this mean for businesses, workers, and the state economy? With a lawsuit filed in Klickitat County and a potential Supreme Court battle ahead, the future of Washington’s income tax remains uncertain. 📄 Full breakdown and reporting:

🔔 Subscribe for more coverage on taxes, policy, and economic impact.

#IncomeTax #WashingtonState #Taxes #Economy #SmallBusiness #BreakingNews #PublicPolicy #CostOfLiving #TaxDebate #BusinessNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.15.26 | Critics Say Income Tax Will Expand & WA Spends Big Suing Trump

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

On Tax Day 2026, major policy debates are unfolding in Washington State — from a newly signed income tax to legal challenges and growing questions about government spending and taxpayer impact. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down: The history of income tax in the U.S. and how it expanded over time Washington’s new “millionaires tax” and what it means for residents Concerns from small businesses over pass-through income and tax burden Legal challenges and constitutional questions surrounding the tax A developing legal case that could impact healthcare accountability standards New reporting on thousands of taxpayer-funded hours spent on lawsuits involving federal policy With billions in potential economic impact and ongoing legal battles, these issues could shape the future of taxation, business, and public policy in Washington and beyond.

📊 Key questions: Will this tax stay limited or expand over time? Who ultimately pays the cost? How will courts respond to legal challenges? Stay informed with in-depth reporting and analysis on the policies affecting your wallet and your community.

🔔 Subscribe for more updates on taxes, policy, and breaking news

#TaxDay #IncomeTax #WashingtonState #Taxes #Policy #Economy #SmallBusiness #BreakingNews #PublicPolicy #LegalNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.14.26 | Tax Hikes Impacting Business & Anti-Theft Funding Cut Update

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 22:50:07 +0000

In today’s episode of Washington In Focus Daily, multiple major policy issues collide — from rising retail theft to controversial tax hikes and a last-minute veto drawing backlash. Governor Bob Ferguson’s decision to veto $500,000 in funding for an organized retail theft task force is raising concerns among lawmakers and industry leaders, especially as reports show Washington is among the hardest-hit states for retail crime. At the same time, new nicotine taxes — including a 95% excise tax on many products — are sparking debate over whether higher taxes are reducing use or fueling black market activity. Key topics covered: Retail theft surge and public safety concerns Lawmaker reaction to vetoed funding Impact on small businesses and communities Rising nicotine taxes and cross-border purchasing Black market concerns tied to regulation As Washington faces growing challenges in crime, taxation, and enforcement, policymakers are under increasing pressure to find solutions.

📄 Source material:

🔔 Subscribe for daily coverage of Washington state politics, policy, and breaking news.

#WashingtonState #RetailTheft #CrimeNews #PublicSafety #BreakingNews #TaxPolicy #NicotineTax #Seattle #USPolitics #PolicyDebate #SmallBusiness

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.13.26 | Income Tax Backlash & Anti-Theft Funding Cut

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

A major legal battle is underway in Washington State after a new income tax law was signed by Gov. Bob Ferguson—and now it’s being challenged in court. A coalition including the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), former Attorney General Rob McKenna, and former State Supreme Court Justice Phil Talmage has filed a lawsuit arguing the tax violates the Washington Constitution. Critics warn the 9.9% tax on income above $1 million could hit small businesses harder than expected—especially those structured as pass-through entities, where business income is taxed as personal income. Meanwhile, controversy is growing over Gov. Ferguson’s last-minute veto of $500,000 in funding aimed at combating organized retail theft—despite rising crime and billions in losses for retailers statewide. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down: The income tax lawsuit and constitutional arguments Why small businesses say they could be impacted Concerns about future income tax expansion The retail theft crisis in Washington Why the veto is drawing backlash from lawmakers and retailers Stay informed on the biggest policy battles shaping Washington State.

#WashingtonState #IncomeTax #SmallBusiness #RetailTheft #Politics #TaxPolicy #BreakingNews #BobFerguson #WashingtonNews #Economy #BusinessNews

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.10.26 | Critics Say Income Tax Will Apply To All & Charter School Cuts

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 21:47:28 +0000

Washington State is facing major developments across tax policy, education funding, and public safety. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down the Department of Revenue’s plan to hire more than 300 employees ahead of the state’s new income tax rollout—while legal challenges question whether the tax is constitutional. We also examine $7.5 million in budget cuts to charter schools, impacting thousands of students across Washington, despite reports showing strong outcomes for charter school graduates. And in Yakima, city leaders have approved a six-month moratorium on transition housing, as communities across the state push back against plans to expand transition facilities for individuals released from McNeil Island. 👉 Topics covered: Washington income tax rollout and hiring plan Legal challenges: Is the income tax constitutional? Department of Revenue expansion explained Charter school funding cuts and student impact Charter vs traditional school outcomes Yakima moratorium on transition housing Public safety concerns and community pushback McNeil Island and transition facility debate ⚖️ With lawsuits, budget decisions, and public safety concerns all colliding, Washington State is at the center of several high-stakes policy debates. 🔔 Subscribe for daily coverage of Washington State politics, education, and breaking policy developments

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.09.26 | Ferguson Takes Shots At His Opponents & Sheriff Reform Lawsuit

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 9 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington State’s new income tax is already facing multiple legal challenges—and the fight is escalating. In this episode of Washington In Focus Daily, we break down a newly filed lawsuit from the Citizen Action Defense Fund, joined by former Washington Attorney General Rob McKenna, challenging the legality of the state’s income tax in Klickitat County Superior Court. We also hear from a former Democratic State Supreme Court Justice, who has joined the case, raising concerns about how the tax could impact small businesses and whether it violates Washington’s constitution. Meanwhile, another legal battle is unfolding over Washington’s new sheriff decertification law (SB 5974)—with multiple sheriffs and a Kitsap County candidate filing lawsuits, arguing the law could be unconstitutional and give too much power to state agencies. 👉 Key topics covered: New lawsuit challenging Washington’s income tax Constitutional debate: Is income considered property? Small business concerns over tax impacts Governor Bob Ferguson’s response to legal challenges Sheriff decertification law lawsuits explained Concerns over social media requirements for law enforcement candidates With multiple lawsuits, potential injunctions, and possible ballot measures ahead, this story is rapidly evolving—and could have major implications for Washington taxpayers and voters.

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.08.26 | Major Democrat Fights The Income Tax & Recall Of Gov. Ferguson

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 9 Apr 2026 00:04:49 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Wednesday April 8, 2026 Tim Clouser hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Gov. Bob Ferguson's state income tax has a new opponent in a former Democrat Supreme Court Justice, a recall petition is underway unless Gov. Ferguson fills the vacancies on the Public Disclosure Commission, and concerns are being raised over the way Washington state funds transportation projects. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.07.26 | Income Tax Heads To Supreme Court & Budget Funding Questions

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 7 Apr 2026 23:02:32 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday April 7, 2026 Tim Clouser hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Gov. Bob Ferguson's new state income tax is headed to the state Supreme Court for a hearing over the ability to challenge the law with a ballot initiative, Puget Sound Energy is proposing another rate hike in Washington, and The Center Square's TJ Martinell shares an investigation into the state's public works account funds being redirected to cover budget deficits. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.06.26 | Gas Prices Soar & Security Concerns In Seattle

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 6 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Monday April 6, 2026 Tim Clouser hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, The United States enters the fifth week of conflict with Iran as gas prices hit record highs nationwide, the sheriff decertification bill now faces legal challenges, and the city of Seattle faces scrutiny for it's new policy around surveillance cameras ahead of hosting matches for the FIFA World Cup. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.02.26 | Girls Sports Controversy & Gov. Ferguson Takes GOP Advice

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 2 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Friday April 2, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, two Washington students are voicing their concerns over the state's policies around girls sports, an exclusive interview with the girls involved and their parents, and Gov. Bob Ferguson issues a directive influenced by GOP Senator Leonard Christian on the Community Protection Bill. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 4.01.26 | Income Tax Hits Business & Sheriff Decertification Bill Update

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 1 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Wednesday April 1, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Gov. Bob Ferguson signs the sheriff decertification bill into law, debate over how the income tax will impact businesses continues, plus an update on legal challenges against the new income tax. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.31.26 | Income Tax Legal Challenges & Controversial Reform Bill Signed

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Mar. 31, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Gov. Bob Ferguson signs the new income tax bill into law, Let's Go Washington Founder Brian Heywood discusses legal challenges the legislation will face, a controversial reform bill is now law in Washington state. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.23.26 | Silence On Income Tax & Sheriff Decertification Bill Now Law

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 18:02:01 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Mar. 23, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the new income tax has still not been signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson, the sheriff decertification bill is signed into law, and an Anti-Trump art project in a Puyallup school classroom goes viral. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.30.26 | Gov. Ferguson Signs Income Tax Into Law & Lawsuits Underway

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Mar. 30, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Gov. Bob Ferguson signs the new income tax bill into law, Attorney Jackson Maynard of Citizen Action Defense Fund discusses his organization's lawsuit against the legislation, and No Kings protests took over Washington. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.27.26 | Income Tax Protests & Permanent Supportive Housing Concerns

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Friday Mar. 27, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the new income tax has still not been signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson, Gov. Ferguson signed a new bill to make supportive housing solutions permanent, and Washington ranks 49 out of 50 states on a study ranking rainy day funds nationwide. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.26.26 | Plans To Fight The Income Tax & Record High Fuel Prices Hit WA

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Mar. 26, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the new income tax has still not been signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson, Washington Republicans discuss their thoughts on why Ferguson is delaying signing the new tax and possible plans to stop the legislation, the price of diesel fuel has hit record highs in Washington and is impacting trucking, trade and even schools, plus a new bill will allow small pension recipients the ability to be paid out in a lump sum. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.25.26 | Tax Hypocrisy? & Trump's HUD Probes Race-Based Housing In WA

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Wednesday Mar. 25, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the new income tax has still not been signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson, estate tax gets rolled back to 20%, a new report claims the affordability crisis in Washington is getting worse, and President Trump's Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is targeting Washington State for a race-based housing program. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.24.26 | Plans To Stop New Income Tax? & SCOTUS To Rule On Election Law

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Mar. 24, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the new income tax has still not been signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson, the groundwork is being laid out for possible ways to intervene with the new tax legislation, the SCOTUS is set to rule on vote-by-mail, and a big win for a journalist against the city of Seattle. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.20.26 | Income Tax Still Stalled & New Affordable Housing Laws

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 22:29:39 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Friday Mar. 20, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the new income tax has still not been signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson, A new bill passed that will help with housing costs , and Washington has yet to opt into a Federal tax credit program for education. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.19.26 | Income Tax Bill Still Not Signed Into Law & Gas Prices Soar

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 22:54:34 +0000

Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the new income tax has still not been signed into law by Gov. Bob Ferguson, a new home energy ordinance in Thurston County is facing backlash, and gas prices are soaring in Washington. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.18.26 | Income Tax Legal Challenges & NBA In Seattle Jeopardized?

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:23:55 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Wednesday Mar. 18, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, legal challenges expect to launch against the new state income tax, the new income tax may threaten the NBA's return to Seattle, plus a new report out highlights charter school successes. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.17.26 | New Taxes Threaten Business & GOP Plan For November Elections

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 23:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Mar. 17, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the new income tax may hurt the business community in Washington, Republicans have big plans to win elections in November , and new bridge and light rail construction get's Gov. Ferguson's Approval. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.16.26 | New Taxes May Hurt Seattle Sports & New ESG Laws Impact Energy

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Mar. 16, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the new income tax may hurt Seattle sports teams, new ESG laws are set to impact, and critics of the press credentialing system in Washington say they see a double standard. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.10.26 | All Night Fight Over Income Tax & Policing Reform Update

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:51:39 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Mar. 10, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Republicans spend the whole night fighting the new income tax bill, a law enforcement reform bill passes alongside an important policing amendment, and an update on the new media lawsuit over press credentialing. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.09.26 | Income Tax Faces Major Opposition & New Media Lawsuit Update

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 01:07:15 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Mar. 9, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Democrats keep making changes to the new income tax bill, a Washington state senator defends his language during a floor hearing, and an update on the new media lawsuit over press credentialing. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.06.26 | Dems Change Income Tax Bill & Sheriff Decertification Passes

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 7 Mar 2026 04:56:12 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Friday Mar. 6, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Democrats are making changes to the new income tax bill, the sheriff decertification bill passes, and a conversation surrounding a city's ability to restrict federal law enforcement from operating in their jurisdictions. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.05.26 | Dems Split On Income Tax? Rate Hikes For Energy Bills?

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 5 Mar 2026 23:51:20 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Mar. 5, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Democrats appear to be torn on how to move foward with an income tax bill, energy bills maybe going up as PSE says they need to hike rate, and a lawsuit is filed of the DOL data breach. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.03.26 | SCOTUS Sides With Parents & New Changes To Income Tax Bill?

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 3 Mar 2026 23:05:01 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Mar. 3, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the Supreme Court rules in favor of parental rights, the impact of SCOTUS' decision in Washington, and the latest on the new income tax bill. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 3.02.26 | Fiery Hearing On Child Welfare Reform & Law Enforcement Funding Stalled

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 3 Mar 2026 03:01:00 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Mar. 2, 2026

Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State.

On today’s show, Passionate testimony on The Keeping Families Together Act swept through the legislature, Cities fight for funding for law enforcement, and the latest on the new income tax bill.

Washington In Focus Daily | 2.27.26 | Income Tax Debate Intensifies & Dems Stop Fraud Crackdown

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 23:28:24 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Feb. 26, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Washington is one step closer to introducing an income tax, a new bill would allow foreign nationals in state law enforcement, and amendments to crackdown on fraud are halted by Democrats. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 2.26.26 | Fitzgibbon Intoxicated On The Job & GOP Reacts To The Scandal

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 23:46:23 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Feb. 25, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Rep Joe Fitzgibbon admits to being intoxicated during a congressional budget hearing, Democrats quietly plan to roll back the estate tax hikes they implemented, and a bill to reduce taxes on luxury aircrafts may pass in Washington. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 2.25.26 | Democrats Want Higher Taxes & No Tort Reform In Washington

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:16:10 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Wednesday Feb. 25, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, debate intensifies in Washington over newly proposed income taxes, Democrats continue to defend raising taxes, and no tort reform will happen this year in Washington. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 2.24.26 | Heated Hearing On Income Tax & The Largest Budget Proposal Yet

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:48:53 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Feb. 24, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, debate intensifies in Washington over newly proposed income taxes, Washington proposes a budget $2 Billion more than last year's, and law enforcement communities are not happy with new law enforcement reform bills. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 2.23.26 | Income Tax Debate & Sheriff Swank On Law Enforcement Reform

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:03:44 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Feb. 23, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, debate continues in Washington over newly proposed income taxes, Sheriff Keith Swank gives his take on new law enforcement reform bills , and we preview what's ahead this week in Washington state. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Weekend Edition | WA child welfare Policy stalls as parties clash over parental drug abuse

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - Washington Democratic leadership Wednesday told The Center Square there is disagreement between Republicans and Democrats about the best way to respond to the tragic number of children dying or suffering critical incidents in homes with drug-addicted parents. Republicans have been trying for years to amend the Keeping Families Together Act and the “imminent harm” threshold for removing a child from a home where there is drug abuse, and/or neglect. As reported by The Center Square, supporters of a fix say the definition of imminent harm needs to be changes, as it is currently leading to children being sent back to homes where lethal drugs are present and, in many cases, led to their death. There were more critical incidents in 2025 than ever before.

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Washington In Focus Daily | 2.18.26 | NBA May Snub Seattle & Possible New Taxes On Tobacco

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 23:26:37 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Feb. 19th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Gov. Bob Ferguson reportedly met with NBA commissioner Adam Silver over the league's concerns with the Sonics returning due to the new wealth tax , a new tax on tobacco products may hit Washington , and the state is draining pensions funds for law enforcement officers to fund climate policy. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 2.18.26 | What Is Really Happening With the New Tax Plan In Washington?

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:17:50 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Wednesday Feb. 18th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Gov. Bob Ferguson details his plans to help working families and small businesses with the Democrat's new tax plan , child welfare reform bills continue to not get passed , and the 'Initiative Killer Bill' fails in Washington. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington In Focus Daily | 2.17.26 | Tax Hikes Become Law & Heated Debate Over Child Welfare Laws

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 23:38:41 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Feb. 17th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the state has raised taxes on high earners, Democrats are quietly trying to roll back their estate tax hikes , and two congressmen get into a heated debate over 'The Keeping Families Together Act'. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Weekend Edition | Lawsuit filed over denial of press credentials to journalists by WA House

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - A lawsuit has been filed by the Citizens Action Defense Fund against the Washington state House and other entities for the denial of press credentials to several independent journalists, which the suit claims violates their First Amendment rights. Last year, the Capitol Correspondents Association, one of the defendants in the lawsuit, handed its press credentialing authority to the state Legislature after decades of overseeing that role. To obtain a House press pass, an individual has to apply by filling out an online form. Media credentials allow individuals to attend media availability press conferences as well as access areas of the state Capitol not otherwise open to the public. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington In Focus Daily | 2.12.26 | Trump's DOE Targets Washington & Dems work to stop initiatives

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 23:25:56 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Friday Feb. 13th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Republicans are fighting back against limiting initiatives, Trump's Dept. Of Education is investigating the Puyallup school district , and Spokane's drinking water is found to be contamindated with dangers levels of PFAS. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Washington In Focus Daily | 2.12.26 | Abortion pill distribution drama & massive bonds for transit

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 23:21:47 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Feb. 12th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, concerns over Washington's ability to distribute abortion pills nationwide take center stage, activists warn there are unreported risks these pills pose to women, and the state has passed legislation to fund Sound Transit with bonds for 75 years. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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High taxes threaten high earners, lessening charges against predators & new media sues Washington

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:04:24 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Wednesday Feb. 11th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, income tax proposal sparks concerns over high earners leaving the state, politicians are trying to lessen charges against predators who fail to register, and Washington is being sued after restricting some new media members press accessibility. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Proposed tax hike, child welfare concerns, and new media restrictions in Washington

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:31:26 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Feb. 10th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, income tax proposal sparks massive opposition, critics claim the 'Keep Families Together Act' may endanger children, and Washington Democrats are restricting some new media. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Weekend Edition | Washington bill proposals impacting income tax, local camping bans, & the Public Records Act

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 7 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Majority Democrats in Washington on Tuesday rolled out the much-anticipated income tax bill. Senate Bill 6346, with Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, as the prime sponsor, is being called by supporters the ‘millionaire’s tax’ as it’s a 9.9% tax on income over one million dollars. House Democrats advanced two proposals Monday that local officials fear could undo all the work Spokane has done downtown over the past several months to tackle public camping. HB 2489 would prohibit cities from enforcing camping bans unless they can afford to house every homeless person with their pets and belongings in the immediate area. As Washington state senators contemplate a proposal that would exempt some state employees' identities from public disclosure, a House bill would set up a task force that one critic says would “gut” the Public Records Act and undermine government transparency. Proponents argue that the task force will help tackle what they consider to be overly burdensome, expensive or frivolous requests meant to harass local governments. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Income tax hearing & medical debt interest rates | Washington in Focus Daily | 2.6.26

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 6 Feb 2026 22:45:36 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Friday Feb. 6th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, income tax proposal sparks massive opposition, superintendent Chris Reykdal talks with Carleen about parental rights and girls sports initiatives, and bill to reduce medical debt interest rates moves off the senate floor Read more at TheCenterSquare.com

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Education tax credits & insurance fraud possibly upgraded to felony | Washington in focus daily

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 6 Feb 2026 00:17:11 +0000

Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Feb. 5th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, state superintendent Chris Reykdal apposes federal tax credit for education, state insurance commissioner Patty Kruderer supports bill to make insurance fraud a felony and public records requests could be limited for school districts

WA Senate passes bill banning law enforcement from wearing masks amid ICE activity

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - The Washington State Senate advanced a proposal Wednesday that would prohibit all law enforcement from wearing masks with many immigration agents wearing face coverings they say they need to protect them from harassment and doxxing. Gov. Bob Ferguson announced his support for the idea earlier this month as state Democrats proposed several bills that could impede federal immigration enforcement. Wednesday’s floor vote sends Senate Bill 5855 to the state House.

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Hearing set on bills inspired by whistleblower to stop NGO self-dealing

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - A whistleblower who exposed alleged self-dealing within taxpayer-funded grant programs says Attorney General Nick Brown's staff still hasn't interviewed her, months after assigning an investigator. The allegations center around non-profits funded by the Washington State Community Reinvestment Program (CRP) and other race-based programs funded by taxpayers at the federal and state level.

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Weekend Edition | 'Initiative Killer' bill faces intense backlash during heated WA hearing

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - A bill that changes the state's initiative process was touted by supporters as stopping aggressive signature gatherers and wealthy special interests on Tuesday, but critics dubbed it "anti-Democratic" and an “initiative killer." The legislation-SB 5973- sponsored by Sen. Javier Valdez, D-Seattle, would require a “demonstration of support before issuance of a ballot measure title and authorize citizen actions for certain signature gatherer compensation violations,” according to the bill summary. The bill would require a minimum of 1000 signatures be submitted as part of the filing of a proposed initiative or referendum. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA fund raids undermining efforts to boost housing supply, advocates warn

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - As the Washington legislative session continues discussions around bills to boost the housing supply, building industry advocates are warning that continued raids on an account meant to fund local infrastructure projects can undermine any new legislation. “Not only is this concerning for anyone looking for a place to call home, but it also means less revenue for state and local governments,” the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties wrote in a statement to The Center Square.

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'Initiative Killer' bill faces intense backlash during heated WA hearing

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

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Weekend Edition | Seattle leaders condemn ICE & Gov. Ferguson champions 'millionaire's tax'

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Seattle city leaders continue to condemn U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good by ICE agent Jonathan Ross during an enforcement operation in Minneapolis, Minn., earlier this month, while some of Washington’s conservative leaders warn the rhetoric could contribute to further civil unrest. Gov. Bob Ferguson on Tuesday delivered his State of the State address before a joint session of state lawmakers on Day 2 of the 60-day legislative session that began Monday, spotlighting the state’s resiliency by highlighting the response to recent flooding and throwing his support behind a so-called “millionaire’s tax.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA DCYF child care reimbursement rates could increase by 30% from 2021 levels

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – As ongoing controversy persists over alleged fraud with Department of Children, Youth & Families Working Connections Childcare Program, Gov. Bob Ferguson’s proposed 2026 supplemental operating budget could increase the reimbursement rates for licensed home-based child care providers by 30%.

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Gov. Ferguson champions 'millionaire's tax' during State of the State address

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Gov. Bob Ferguson on Tuesday delivered his State of the State address before a joint session of state lawmakers on Day 2 of the 60-day legislative session that began Monday, spotlighting the state’s resiliency by highlighting the response to recent flooding and throwing his support behind a so-called “millionaire’s tax.”

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Seattle leaders condemn ICE; conservatives warn rhetoric could spark unrest

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle city leaders continue to condemn U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good by ICE agent Jonathan Ross during an enforcement operation in Minneapolis, Minn., earlier this month, while some of Washington’s conservative leaders warn the rhetoric could contribute to further civil unrest.

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Ecology confirms Commerce ‘significantly inflated’ CCA emissions reductions

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The state Department of Ecology has admitted that a recent report on carbon emission reductions through projects financed by the Climate Commitment Act was “significantly inflated” by the Department of Commerce after one environmental analyst previously questioned the effectiveness of several projects. Commerce has now sent back revised figures.

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Weekend Edition | 'Flabbergasted’ WA daycare owner frustrated over alleged Somali fraud in industry

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – As more is revealed about the potential daycare fraud within the Somali community in Washington state and the Department of Children, Youth & Families scrambles to respond, one large daycare provider is sharing his frustrations with The Center Square. On Monday, The Center Square visited several Somali-run home daycares in Federal Way, but found only one home with a few children inside. Others did not answer knocks on the front door, grew confrontational – calling the police, or conceded they don’t currently have children enrolled. "Anyone who's in the industry is, like, flabbergasted,” said daycare owner David McMullan, who also chairs the Pierce County Republicans. “How are they getting that money and we're not?” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA SAO audits found inadequate DCYF oversight over child care subsidy program

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 9 Jan 2026 21:45:08 +0000

(The Center Square) - The Washington State Auditor’s Office in recent years has concluded that the state Department of Children, Youth, and Families lacked adequate oversight over its child care subsidy program, according to audits obtained by The Center Square.

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'Flabbergasted’ WA daycare owner frustrated over alleged Somali fraud in industry

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 8 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

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Seattle police: Arrests for drug use remain in place under clarified LEAD policy

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 7 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Seattle Police Department has clarified that officers will continue to make arrests for drug-related charges when probable cause exists, with the City Attorney’s Office then determining next steps, including diversion to the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion, or LEAD, program.

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DHS raid over childcare center fraud draws spotlight on WA program

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 1 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Recent raids by the Department of Homeland Security in Minnesota over allegations of mass childcare center fraud has inspired scrutiny over similar licensed businesses in Washington state, while the state Department of Children, Youth & Family Services is encouraging individuals to report suspected fraud to a 24/7 hotline.

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Four Western WA counties granted $6.6M in federal funds for road safety programs

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 21:54:20 +0000

(The Center Square) – Selected communities in four Western Washington counties will receive a combined $6.58 million in federal funding for road safety improvements, as new data shows a decline in fatal and serious injury crashes in 2025. U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., announced the federal grant awards to cities and Native tribes in King, Snohomish, Clark and Thurston counties through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All program.

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Weekend Edition | Seattle Children’s nurses vote to authorize strike as contract talks continue

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – More than 2,100 registered nurses at Seattle Children’s Hospital have authorized a potential strike following a union vote. Registered nurses at Seattle Children’s Hospital voted Sunday and Monday on whether to authorize their bargaining team to call a strike. The Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA), which represents the striking nurses, wrote in a post on Monday that the measure passed by an “overwhelming” margin. “Your vote to authorize a strike gives us more power at the bargaining table,” the union wrote in its post. “We continue to bargain fiercely to reach a complete tentative agreement we can be proud to bring to you for a vote without having to strike.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Seattle Children’s nurses vote to authorize strike as contract talks continue

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000

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Organizer to Seattle: No need to wait for final fed policy on homelessness

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:37:07 +0000

(The Center Square) - Even though the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has temporarily withdrawn its recently announced policy changes that threaten deep cuts to "Housing First" programs, the founder of a Seattle-based community group is confident the changes are coming. Andrea Suarez, who founded We Heart Seattle more than five years ago, said there’s “no need to wait” for federal action before the city alters its approach.

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Weekend Edition | Seattle Mayor-elect Wilson’s staff working to align with ethics laws

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle Mayor-elect Katie Wilson’s senior staff includes figures from nonprofits and advocacy groups who have played influential roles in shaping city policy, meaning she and her team are navigating potential conflicts with city ethics laws. “This is a team that’s ready to get to work,” said Wilson in announcing her senior staff team earlier this month. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oversight board meets as 2025 closes with record WA child deaths/near deaths

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - Members of the Department of Children Youth and Families Oversight Board met Wednesday to discuss proposed changes to legislation that critics say has led to an alarming increase in the numbers of children who have died in the Washington state welfare system in recent years. The board also discussed and ultimately rejected adding the secretary of DCYF or executive staff to the board as a nonvoting member.

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Seattle Mayor-elect Wilson’s staff working to align with ethics laws

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000

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Weekend Edition | As federal probe widens, Gov. Walz tells Seattle crowd he'll welcome more Somalis

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, under fire for failing to prevent a massive welfare fraud scheme in his state, was in Seattle on Tuesday as the special guest at Gov. Bob Ferguson’s fundraising luncheon, telling those in attendance Somalis were being "demonized" and vowing to bring more into his state. “These folks better not ever mistake our kindness for our weakness because we are going to defend our neighbors. These guys bring out the worst in me. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

‘Political conflict’ alleged over WA AGO’s involvement in initiative legal battle

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 20:01:43 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Attorney General’s Office billed more than 11,000 hours of attorney and staff work on lawsuits against the federal government in an eight-month period following the November 2024 election, according to records obtained by The Center Square. More than a third of those hours were spent working on a lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s executive order regarding federal funding for medical providers who perform gender-affirming procedures on children.

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As federal probe widens, Gov. Walz tells Seattle crowd he'll welcome more Somalis

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000

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Tacoma to consider public safety sales tax to avoid 911 cuts, address budget gap

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Tacoma City Council will hold its first reading this week on a proposed 0.1% public safety sales tax – months later than several neighboring cities that have already adopted similar increases. The sales tax increase – authorized by the state Legislature via House Bill 2015, with generated revenue only allowed to go toward public safety needs – would raise Tacoma’s sales tax rate from 10.3% to 10.4% and generate an estimated $7 million to $7.5 million annually, according to the city.

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Weekend Edition | Democratic socialist lawmaker introduces statewide payroll tax

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 6 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Rep. Shaun Scott, D-Seattle, on Tuesday held a press conference to announce legislation for a new payroll excise tax on high-income earners, aimed at “protecting Washington’s budget and public services from the severe impacts of H.R. 1, the federal tax package recently passed by Congressional Republicans and Donald Trump,” according to Scott’s press release. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Half of 2025 CCA spending went toward WSF fleet electrification

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 5 Dec 2025 14:30:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Funding for electrifying the Washington State Ferries system continues to dominate total Climate Commitment Act project spending, according to a new Department of Ecology report for fiscal year 2025. While Ecology is touting the investments as reducing 9 million metric tons of carbon over the past two fiscal years, some critics are questioning the true cost per ton for some of the projects.

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Democratic socialist lawmaker introduces statewide payroll tax

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 4 Dec 2025 14:30:00 +0000

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Seattle pushes Olympia for funding on housing, public safety and immigrant aid

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 3 Dec 2025 22:01:26 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle is pushing for a state-level backstop to help fund immigrant services and other top priorities as the Trump administration escalates federal immigration enforcement nationwide. The Seattle Office of Intergovernmental Relations briefed the city council on a proposed state legislative agenda for next year’s session during a council briefing on Monday.

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Weekend Edition | Trump admin moving ahead with dismantling the U.S. Dept. of Education

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – President Donald Trump took another step toward fulfilling his promise to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. Federal officials announced that “six new interagency agreements (IAAs) with four agencies to break up the federal education bureaucracy, ensure efficient delivery of funded programs, activities, and move closer to fulfilling the President’s promise to return education to the states,” in a news release from the Department of Education. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trump admin moving ahead with dismantling the U.S. Dept. of Education

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

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Weekend Edition | WSBA investigated then-AG Bob Ferguson in 2023 related to lawsuit

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington State Bar Association investigated Gov. Bob Ferguson when he was attorney general in 2023 for his office's handling of a lawsuit that cost taxpayers $3 million, new documents obtained by The Center Square show. The confidential investigation found insufficient evidence to prove wrongdoing, but the WSBA probe has never been reported, according to the records obtained for the AGO's office through an open records request. The Center Square also obtained records showing other complaints were filed against Ferguson while he was serving as attorney general, but they were dismissed without further investigation or directed to Ferguson's private attorneys. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington State Bar Association investigated then-AG Bob Ferguson in 2023

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 14:30:00 +0000

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Auburn hikes sales tax without public vote to fund criminal justice

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 16:39:55 +0000

Auburn is the latest Washington state city to take advantage of a new state law allowing cities and counties to implement a 0.1% sales and use tax for criminal justice purposes without a voter-approved referendum. During a Monday night meeting, members of the Auburn City Council unanimously approved the tax hike as an additional source of funding to address public safety needs

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Seattle, King County move to backfill $40M gap in homeless funds after HUD rule change

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:30:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s funding notice of last week is expected to create a $40 million shortfall for the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, leaving Seattle and King County scrambling to cover the gap as they continue budget deliberations.

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Weekend Edition | Records reveal further details of WSBA investigation into AG Brown

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 15 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Newly obtained records reveal further details of the Washington State Bar Association investigation into Attorney General Nick Brown that ended hours after The Center Square reached out for comment. WSBA rules dictate that bar complaint investigations into private attorneys are to be kept confidential, but The Center Square obtained records of the investigation through a public records request to the AGO. The office acted as defense counsel for Brown and AGO employees and resources were used to prepare the response. Among the new details revealed is that Solicitor General Noah Purcell sought and obtained two separate extensions of deadlines set by the WSBA, albeit the first one was after two deadlines had not been met. The Center Square has previously inquired with the WSBA whether extensions were granted but did not receive any response. The AGO has also never responded to The Center Square's requests to confirm the information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Records reveal further details of WSBA investigation into AG Brown

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 23:07:36 +0000

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Whistleblower: Tacoma Urban League being investigated; CEO placed on leave

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 21:56:03 +0000

(The Center Square) – Concerns about the use of Washington state's Community Reinvestment Program (CRP) funds have now moved on to the Tacoma Urban League, including the organization's director being put on leave, interviews show. CRP was created to support homeownership for minorities by providing grants and funding to programs that assist low-income households, and to support minority owned business development.

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Weekend Edition | Father of Housing First points to success; We Heart Seattle highlights failures

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – On an overcast mid-October day, just inside the Third Avenue offices of We Heart Seattle, Executive Director Andrea Suarez and two of her staff members sat next to a table covered with gallon-sized Ziploc bags filled with used drug foil collected in recent weeks from parks and streets in Seattle. On an adjacent table, a “harm reduction” kit provided to drug addicts by Public Health – Seattle & King County displayed clean drug needles, wound care wipes, Narcan to reverse drug overdoses, foil, note cards suggesting addicts use drugs together to help prevent overdoses, and many other items that Suarez says are worsening the city’s drug crisis. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

‘They actually have audiences’: AG Brown directed video mocking ‘mean tweets’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 6 Nov 2025 21:47:16 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown proposed and directly oversaw the production of a video made by his office featuring him mocking the social media posts of his critics during an active State Bar Association investigation into him. It was an investigation where Brown twice failed to respond to bar investigators by the deadlines but was dismissed last week after The Center Square requested the status of the probe.

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Father of Housing First points to success; We Heart Seattle highlights failures

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 5 Nov 2025 21:14:35 +0000

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Overcrowding looms amid King County's $3.96B annual affordable housing funding gap

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 4 Nov 2025 22:33:33 +0000

(The Center Square) – King County council members are grappling with housing challenges that put larger households at risk of overcrowding. On Monday, the King County Council discussed a recent housing report highlighting a $3.96 billion annual funding gap needed to meet the county’s affordable housing goals.

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Weekend Edition | Whistleblower: WA’s Community Reinvestment Program riddled with self-dealing

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 1 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – A whistleblower has raised serious allegations against Washington state’s Community Reinvestment Program, which, among other things, aims to support homeownership for minorities by providing grants and funding to programs that assist low-income households. Independent journalist and “unDivided” podcast host Brandi Kruse on Monday published an article based on a months-long investigation into information obtained by real estate agent Corey Orvold, which points to the program becoming a fund for personal enrichment of those charged with distributing the funds. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA lawmaker renews push for spending transparency bills in wake of CRP allegations

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 20:44:57 +0000

(The Center Square) – A Washington lawmaker is calling for the state Legislature to give several spending transparency bills he’s sponsored a second look in the wake of allegations made against the state’s Community Reinvestment Program.

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Whistleblower: WA’s Community Reinvestment Program riddled with self-dealing

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 21:35:25 +0000

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Spokane council sets aside ideological divide to replace unenforceable camping ban

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 23:48:06 +0000

(The Center Square) – With unanimous support, the Spokane City Council set aside ideological divides on Monday, just a week before the election, to replace Mayor Lisa Brown’s unenforceable camping ban. The historic vote follows community backlash after the council majority passed the mayor’s proposal in June. Much of the business community had argued it didn’t have enough teeth and would let habitable offenders get off scot-free, pleading with the council to reinstate another voter-approved camping ban.

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Weekend Edition | WSBA ends investigation into Washington AG Nick Brown hours after inquiry by The Center Square

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 25 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Bar Association formally concluded an investigation into state Attorney General Nick Brown and dismissed a separate complaint against Solicitor General Noah Purcell hours after The Center Square reached out to the senior disciplinary counsel tasked with overseeing both. The investigation against Brown was launched after a bar complaint was filed in response to an exclusive story by The Center Square. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WSBA ends investigation into Washington AG Nick Brown hours after inquiry by The Center Square

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 20:02:27 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Bar Association formally concluded an investigation into state Attorney General Nick Brown and dismissed a separate complaint against Solicitor General Noah Purcell hours after The Center Square reached out to the senior disciplinary counsel tasked with overseeing both.The investigation against Brown was launched after a bar complaint was filed in response to an exclusive story by The Center Square.

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'South Hill Rapist' Kevin Coe moves to Federal Way home 200 feet from school

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 20:54:48 +0000

(The Center Square) – After more community pushback, Kevin Coe, the notorious "South Hill Rapist" who terrorized Spokane, Wash., in the late 1970s and early 1980s, is being relocated back to Federal Way, the city where he was originally scheduled to live upon his release earlier this month. “We are disappointed to hear the news that Kevin Coe is moving to Federal Way and want to acknowledge community concerns regarding that move," Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell emailed The Center Square.

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‘Strong parallel': Katie Wilson embraces comparisons to NYC’s Zohran Mamdani

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 20:07:38 +0000

(The Center Square) – Katie Wilson, the frontrunner in the 2025 Seattle mayoral race, is not shying away from comparisons to New York City’s leading mayoral candidate, Zohran Mamdani, a self-proclaimed democratic socialist whose platform includes implementing progressive taxes, government-run grocery stores and alternatives to police enforcement.

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Weekend Edition | Washington Democratic lawmaker shares 'regret and guilt' over soft-on-crime votes

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 18 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – A Washington state Democratic lawmaker is expressing “regret and guilt” over legislation she supported that she believes has contributed to an explosion in juvenile crime and lives lost. Rep. Lauren Davis, D-Shoreline, penned an op-ed in The Seattle Times last weekend detailing eight different policies that have “contributed to the juvenile crime wave.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

911 calls report WA initiative signature gatherers for ‘hate speech’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 22:05:15 +0000

(The Center Square) – Last month, the Snohomish Police Department issued a statement telling people not to call 911 in response to initiative signature gatherers operating outside stores such as Fred Meyer and Safeway. Many of the 9-11 callers reported to the nonemergency line such activities as trespassing, but others expressed concerned about nature of the initiatives themselves.

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Washington Democratic lawmaker shares 'regret and guilt' over soft-on-crime votes

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 19:45:53 +0000

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Seattle nonprofit will bus advocates to Spokane to campaign for local progressives

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 17:39:18 +0000

(The Center Square) – A Seattle-based nonprofit focused on “harnessing political power and leadership among young Washingtonians” is busing people to Spokane next Friday to campaign for progressives. The Washington Bus organization is a 501(c)(4) that endorses candidates and transports young adults around the state to canvass in other communities. The Washington Bus Education Fund, an affiliated 501(c)(3), also runs a 10-week-long paid “boot camp” to drive “progressive change in sunny Seattle.”

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Weekend Edition | Seattle mayor signs executive orders in anticipation of National Guard deployment

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell has signed two executive orders in anticipation of President Donald Trump deploying the National Guard in the Emerald City. The first executive order accuses Trump of “unprecedented and unwarranted actions deploying the National Guard and federal military troops to American cities. The use of federal military forces in local communities without consent of local authorities is inconsistent with American principles of democracy and the right of states and cities to self-govern, risks escalation of conflict, and undermines public trust.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Seattle mayor signs executive orders in anticipation of National Guard deployment

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 9 Oct 2025 22:01:11 +0000

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Spokane mayor confirms upcoming changes to camping ban amid lack of enforcement

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 8 Oct 2025 23:18:56 +0000

(The Center Square) – Just hours after her police chief deemed the policy unenforceable, Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown pledged Tuesday to revise her new camping ban so officers can cite for unlawful camping. Business leaders pleaded with the Spokane City Council last summer to reinstate another camping ban approved by nearly 75% of voters, but the progressive majority refused. They decided to pass Brown’s proposal instead, despite having had an opportunity to restore the will of the people by a council vote.

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Drug crisis advisory committee gets update on involuntary treatment outcomes

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 7 Oct 2025 20:24:10 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington state’s Substance Use Recovery Services Advisory Committee, or SURSAC, heard a presentation at Monday’s meeting that rattled some committee members. SURSAC was established through legislation in 2021 to provide recommendations to lawmakers on substance use policy and treatment options.

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Weekend Edition | October brings new taxes for Washington businesses and consumers

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 4 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – A new slate of taxes goes into effect on Wednesday. The changes were passed as part of the 2025-27 biennial budget package, which lawmakers approved in May, and are projected to generate billions in revenue. The changes include an expansion of the retail sales tax to several new services and increased B&O tax rates for financial institutions and large service businesses. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA AGO task force member: ‘No way’ to define domestic violent extremism

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 2 Oct 2025 20:46:03 +0000

(The Center Square) – As the Washington State Attorney General’s Office Domestic Extremism and Mass Violence Task Force prepares a charter, debate continues over whether the task force can define what constitutes DVE or not, if it includes legally protected speech and activities. “I think the premise of trying to fix a domestic extremism problem in the state is problematic,” task force member Walla Walla County Sheriff Mark Crider told colleagues at the organization's Sept.

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Oct. 1 brings new taxes for Washington businesses and consumers

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 1 Oct 2025 21:38:07 +0000

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Regional dispatch network asks Spokane to save it a seat at the table next week

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 20:57:59 +0000

(The Center Square) – As tensions rise, Spokane Regional Emergency Communications sent a letter to the Spokane City Council on Friday requesting time to clear up some confusion before the two split ways. The SREC Executive Board of Directors decided to remove the city from the regional dispatch network in June, following years of failed negotiations. The final split is scheduled for January after the city had asked the state to claw back years of funding so it could prop up its own public safety answering point.

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Weekend Edition | WA four-year revenue forecast drops almost $900 million

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – In June, the Washington State Economic and Revenue Forecast Council’s revenue forecast anticipated that state coffers would run dry by 2027 despite record revenue levels and following the largest tax increase in state history. Now, ERFC’s updated revenue forecast anticipates the state will have almost $900 million less coming in than before over the next four years, which is being attributed in part to national policies such as Federal Reserve interest rates and President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, but also a decline in residential construction. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Let’s Go Washington signature gatherers endure stolen petitions, insults, threats

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 17:18:38 +0000

(The Center Square) – Let’s Go Washington, the conservative political action committee behind two new initiative campaigns, says signature gatherers had petitions stolen and were intimidated and threatened in three separate incidents on Monday. “We've only been gathering for two days, and this all happened within the last day,” LGW Communications Manager Hallie Balch told The Center Square on Tuesday.

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WA four-year revenue forecast drops almost $900 million

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +0000

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Seattle mayor proposes adding $4M to city's immigration office next year

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 21:29:41 +0000

(The Center Square) – Amid talks of increasing federal immigration enforcement in Seattle, Mayor Bruce Harrell’s 2026 budget proposal would increase the city’s immigration office budget by more than 60%. Harrell’s proposed budget – which has yet to be fully revealed – would add $4 million to the Seattle Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs. According to Harrell’s office, this new funding would protect programs that “support Seattle’s immigrant and refugee communities impacted by federal policy shifts and programs threatened by federal funding cuts from the Trump Administration.”

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Washington’s pension system gamble

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 21:53:24 +0000

(The Center Square) – As Washington state is forecast to run out of money by 2027 despite a historic tax increase during this year’s legislative session, that fiscal crisis could be exacerbated several years later if new actuarial assumptions for the pension system don’t pan out. During session, state lawmakers enacted Senate Bill 5357, which altered the assumed rate of return for pension investments from 7% to 7.25%.

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WA GOP chair agrees with Trump that Antifa protesters are ‘paid agitators’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 18:52:35 +0000

(The Center Square) – A day after President Donald Trump endorsed the prospect of designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization, Washington State Republican Party Chair Jim Walsh says he is convinced, like the president, that many Antifa protesters are “paid agitators.” “We've seen examples of that sort of behavior here in Washington,” Walsh texted The Center Square on Tuesday.

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Seattle committee fast-tracks zoning bills ahead of upcoming budget season

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 20:13:38 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Seattle Land Use Committee expedited a slew of bills related to zoning and construction codes to Tuesday's city council meeting amid upcoming budget deliberations. Council bills 121045 and 121047 would amend the city’s municipal code and existing building code in order to limit hurdles for housing construction, one of the top priorities of Seattle leaders.

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Weekend Edition | ‘Conflict of interest’ alleged in complaint against Solicitor General Noah Purcell

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – A complaint against Solicitor General Noah Purcell with the Washington State Executive Ethics Board has been rejected for investigation despite allegations that the decision by Executive Director Kate Reynolds was made amid a conflict of interest. According to emails obtained by The Center Square, Reynolds has previously written that she reports to Purcell. Last month, Purcell wrote a response to the Washington State Bar Association on behalf of Attorney General Nick Brown related to an ethics complaint filed against him. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

‘Conflict of interest’ alleged in complaint against Solicitor General Noah Purcell

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 21:16:36 +0000

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Let's Go Washington launches parents' rights, girls in sports initiatives

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 18:36:10 +0000

(The Center Square) – Let’s Go Washington, a political action committee founded by businessman Brian Heywood, launched two new initiatives to the state Legislature on Monday morning. One concerns parental rights, and the other concerns protecting girls in sports. “The first one will be a repeal of [House Bill] 1296 essentially; 1296 is the legislative gutting of [Initiative] 2081, which was the parents’ bill of rights,” Heywood told The Center Square last week. “It focused on making sure that parents knew what was going on with their kids at school, and schools not having the authority or the ability to keep secrets from parents.”

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King County Councilmember Balducci Demands Swift Fix After Audit Bombshell

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 9 Sep 2025 20:36:33 +0000

(The Center Square) – King County Councilmember Claudia Balducci is calling for a quick response from the county to address major fiscal oversight issues within the Department of Community and Human Services. On Aug. 26, the King County Committee of the Whole was briefed on recent county audit findings revealing that DCHS made policy choices amid an increase in fiscal responsibility without installing a safety net to monitor whether the funds were being used appropriately.

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Weekend Edition | Washington Businesses Preparing for New Retail Sales Taxes To Hit Consumers October 1st

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 6 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - One month from Labor Day, a slew of Washington businesses will be subject to new retail sales taxes, which will be passed onto consumers. The 2025 Washington State Legislature passed Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill (ESSB) 5814, which added new business activities to the definition of retail sales. Those new taxes will be collected starting Oct. 1. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington Commercial Real Estate Tax Revenue Down to Pre 2020-Levels

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 4 Sep 2025 18:27:51 +0000

(The Center Square) - A Washington State Economic and Revenue Forecast Council report found that the state’s commercial real estate excise tax revenue has fallen to pre-2020 levels before the Legislature altered the REET rate. Through 2019, the state’s REET imposed a flat rate of 1.28 % of the value of the transactions, though local governments could impose their own REET on top of that. During the 2019 legislative session, the Legislature enacted a bill that changed it to a graduated rate based on the value of the transaction with a 1.1% rate for properties below $500,000 and the highest rate at 3% for transactions of $3 million or more.

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Washington Businesses Preparing for New Retail Sales Taxes To Hit Consumers October 1st

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 3 Sep 2025 20:04:58 +0000

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Seattle Hits 34% of Promised Sidewalk Fixes in First Year of $1.55b Levy

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 2 Sep 2025 22:51:04 +0000

(The Center Square) – In less than a year, Seattle has conducted 34% of spot repairs to city sidewalks that were promised over the next eight years. In the first Seattle committee meeting in two weeks, the Seattle Department of Transportation briefed the city’s transportation committee on the work being done to improve sidewalks: a major goal of the eight-year, $1.55 billion Transportation levy.

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Weekend Edition | Washington Spent More Than $23M To Hold Illegal Aliens With ICE Detainers in 2024

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 30 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – A group of Washington state Republican senators, including 31st Legislative District Sen. Phil Fortunato of Auburn, are calling for the repeal of a state law that limits law enforcement's cooperation with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials. The Keep Washington Working Act, adopted in 2019, restricts local law enforcement from using local resources to help federal officials enforce immigration law and prevents local law enforcement from sharing nonpublic information with federal officials in most cases. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA State Bar Association Complaint Filed Against Solicitor General Noah Purcell

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 20:59:56 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington Solicitor General Noah Purcell is the focus of a Washington State Bar Association complaint alleging misconduct for responding on Attorney General Nick Brown’s behalf in a separate bar complaint, and directly communicating with private law firm Perkins Coie without its attorney’s consent. The complaint comes right after news broke that Brown faces an inquiry by the bar association over an amicus brief filed in support of Perkins Coie, The Center Square reported this month.

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WA Spent More Than $23M To Hold Illegal Aliens With Ice Detainers in 2024

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 21:25:13 +0000

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City of Spokane Dismisses All Failure To Disperse Charges Against Ice Protesters

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 20:32:19 +0000

(The Center Square) – Just over two months after the largest protest in Spokane since the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement, the City Prosecutor’s Office has dismissed all misdemeanor charges for failure to disperse against the June 11 and June 14 U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement protesters. The Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that it has also dropped all of those charges it filed.

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Weekend Edition | WA Governor Responds After Bondi Threatens Criminal Charges

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson is defending the state’s noncitizen workers' protections law despite U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi’s threats of criminal charges against him if the state does not comply with federal immigration law. On Aug. 13, Ferguson and Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell received letters from Bondi identifying the state and city as jurisdictions that engage in sanctuary policies that thwart federal immigration enforcement. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA AG Nick Brown Threatened With Suspension of License To Practice Law

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 22:41:14 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown was threatened with an interim suspension of his license to practice law for failing to respond to allegations made in response to an exclusive story by The Center Square about the AGO’s amicus brief filed in support of Perkins Coie.

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WA Governor Vows ‘We Will Defeat Them’ After Bondi Threatens Criminal Charges

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 19:20:35 +0000

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Spokane County Considers Hiking Certain Construction Fees by More Than 1,500%

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 22:56:29 +0000

(The Center Square) – Building in Spokane County could become much more expensive soon, as local officials consider hiking several permitting fees for the first time in years, some by more than 1,500%. Spokane County Public Works charges a variety of fees to cover its costs, but many of those have sat stagnant for over a decade. While neglected for years, the Board of County Commissioners has a more than $20 million deficit to balance ahead of 2026, and adjusting these fees could help close that delta.

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Weekend Edition | Report: Washington Ranks 36th for Best States To Live In

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – A new WalletHub report ranked Washington as the 36th best state to live in this year, with Idaho landing second overall due to affordability and law enforcement staffing per capita. Much of the West Coast fell below the bottom half of the charts, with California at 32nd and Oregon at 39th on the list. WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo told The Center Square that rapid growth in Seattle and other cities a few decades ago outpaced the development of infrastructure, creating several issues. The lack of infrastructure, paired with booming population growth, makes it challenging to manage crime, affordability and the availability of services. Washington boasts a strong economy, but the state also faces a ballooning budget and the lowest number of law enforcement officers per capita nationwide.

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Report: Washington Ranks 36th for Best States to Live In 2025 as Idaho Lands 2nd

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 15:00:00 +0000

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WA State Fair Accused of Excluding Pierce County Republican Party

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 15:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – For the first time in many years, the Pierce County Republican Party will not have a booth at the Washington State Fair in Puyallup, Wash. – better known to locals as the Puyallup Fair. Signature-gathering efforts for citizen initiatives and GOP merchandise are the purported reasons for Washington State Fair officials telling Pierce County Republican Party Chair Dave McMullan that he would have to relocate the party’s booth to a different area this year.

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Seattle Braces for Big Drop in Tourism as Sales Tax Revenue Stays Flat

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 18:51:20 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle is expected to see a 27% drop in international overnight visitors this year, with generated sales tax revenue remaining flat. The Seattle Office of Economic and Revenue Forecast anticipates sales tax revenue to total $344.7 million in 2025, a 1.26% increase year-over-year from $340.4 million in 2024. The small bump in revenue comes as the city is set to address a $143 million budget deficit.

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Weekend Edition | Republicans hopeful as primary results show two tight legislative races

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 9 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Initial returns from Tuesday’s primary election in Washington state show an extremely tight race in the 26th Legislative District, which includes Gig Harbor, Port Orchard and Bremerton. Rep. Michelle Caldier, R-Gig Harbor, who has served six terms in the state House of Representatives, is running for the state Senate seat against Sen. Deb Krishnadasan, D-Gig Harbor. Krishnadasan was appointed to the seat in late 2024 to fill the vacancy left by Emily Randall, who was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AGO’s Seattle Office Space Rental Costs Double in a Decade

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 7 Aug 2025 20:11:27 +0000

(The Center Square) – Costs of renting office space for hundreds of employees in the Washington State Attorney General’s Office has more than doubled in the last decade, according to an analysis of fiscal data by The Center Square.The largest recipient of AGO spending, according to fiscal.wa.gov, for the past several biennia has been BPP 800 Fifth REIT LLC, which operates 800 Fifth Avenue in downtown Seattle.

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Primary Election Day in WA; Turnout Projections and Key Races

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 6 Aug 2025 19:49:18 +0000

(The Center Square) – Tuesday is primary election day in Washington state. Ballots must be postmarked or placed in a ballot drop box by 8 p.m. Tuesday to be counted. Washington has a top-two primary, which means that in candidate races, the top two vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation.

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HUD: ‘Success Is No Longer Being Measured by the Number of Housing Units Filled'

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 5 Aug 2025 18:25:40 +0000

(The Center Square) – A Spokane native now overseeing much of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development across the Northwest says the Housing First model is failing American taxpayers. President Donald Trump issued an executive order at the end of July, rebuking the approach as his team brought HUD Regional Administrator Chris Patterson back into the fold. Patterson, who oversaw Region 9 during Trump's first term, now leads Region 10, including Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

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Weekend Edition | Will Governor Ferguson Extend Ban on Auto-Deletion of Public Records?

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 2 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The end of a six-month suspension of a policy that for years allowed for the auto-deletion of Microsoft Teams or instant messages at Washington state agencies after one week is approaching. Microsoft Teams is a cloud-based team collaboration software that allows users to communicate, set up meetings, and share files within a workspace environment, typically via email. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fiscal Fallout: 2026 Legislative Session ‘Could Be Worse Yet’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:23:04 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington state is currently forecast to run out of money by 2027 and experience a fiscal deficit by 2028 despite the largest tax increase in state history this session, in addition to record revenue levels. While some elected and appointed state officials have highlighted the impacts of President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act on Medicaid funding for the combined operating budget, one lawmaker says it’s a distraction from how the state actually got to this point.

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Will Ferguson Extend Ban on Auto-Deletion of Public Records?

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 23:00:00 +0000

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Late-Night Camping Ban Vote Triggers Probe Into Spokane Mayor, City Council Majority

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 22:13:41 +0000

(The Center Square) – Amid allegations of a quid pro quo, the Spokane Ethics Commission voted Wednesday to initiate an independent investigation into Mayor Lisa Brown and the city council. The allegations claim that Brown and five of the seven council members violated the ethics code on June 16 by reversing their vote on a proposed camping ban after much of the public had left.

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Weekend Edition | Fiscal Fallout: Long-Term Care Spending Driver of Washington DSHS Swelling Budget

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington state faces deficit spending by 2028 as lawmakers just hit taxpayers with the state's largest combined tax increase – all driven by massive state spending increases over the past decade, an investigation of state budgets by The Center Square found. Washington state spent about $80 billion in the 2013-15 budget but is set to spend more than $173 billion in 2025-27, a more than 116% increase over that time. U.S. inflation since 2015 has risen just 35.63%. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Olympia Council Sends $20 Minimum Wage, Workers’ Bill of Rights to Nov. Vote

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 19:09:47 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Olympia City Council on Tuesday night rejected a proposal to adopt a $20 minimum wage as part of a Workers' Bill of Rights initiative. The council voted 4-3 against passing the initiative outright. However, the council did vote unanimously to send the initiative to Olympia voters for a decision in the November election. Ahead of the vote, members of the council expressed varying opinions about the initiative.

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WSDOT Begins $203M Revive I-5 Project; Lane Closures Underway

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 21:31:38 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Department of Transportation’s $203 million project to repair a major section of Interstate 5 is underway with northbound traffic limited to two lanes for the next four weeks. Revive I-5 is a multi-year project with significant work on the Ship Canal Bridge located in Seattle. The project began on July 18 with northbound I-5 completely shut down through downtown Seattle up until Monday at 5 a.m.

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Fiscal Fallout: Long-Term Care Spending Driver of Washington Dshs Swelling Budget

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 21:07:01 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington state Department of Social and Health Services' spending since 2015 has nearly tripled from $9 billion to $25.4 billion, a 182.22% increase heavily driven by long-term care cost increases due in part to an aging population. Since the 2013-15 budget, long-term care spending grew from $3.8 to $12.9 billion, and now represents half of DSHS’ biennial budget.

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Weekend Edition | Fiscal Fallout: Washington State Government Spending Surges 116% Since 2015

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 19 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Sen. Braun Urges Ferguson to Get Past Fearmongering on ‘Big Beautiful Bill'

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 20:48:12 +0000

(The Center Square) – Six months after Washington state Gov. Bob Ferguson took office with a moderate-sounding tone that encouraged many Republicans, state Sen. John Braun, R-Centralia, says Ferguson has instead proven to be in “lockstep” with majority party Democrats in the Legislature. “He put forward a very bipartisan, no-nonsense … I just want good government image during the session,” the Senate Minority Leader said in a Monday interview with The Center Square.

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Spokane Conservatives Question Accuracy of 2025 Homelessness Count

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 22:21:17 +0000

(The Center Square) – Despite recording the second consecutive decline in homelessness since 2016, the Spokane City Council’s conservative minority questioned that data on Monday – one of the two members had participated in the Point-in-Time Count last January, calling the feedback “unreliable.” The 2025 Point-in-Time Count released Monday recorded 1,806 people experiencing homelessness in January, a 10.6% dip compared to 2024. City staff were supposed to lead a committee meeting on Monday with the data but fell behind on the agenda, citing last-minute changes they made that morning.

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Fiscal fallout: Washington state government spending surges 116% since 2015

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 18:43:51 +0000

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Weekend Edition | Committee Distances From Drug Use Work Group’s ‘Buyers Club’ Suggestion

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington’s Substance Use Recovery Services Advisory Committee, or SURSAC, is distancing itself from recent recommendations made by a subset work group that included having the state set up a “buyers club” to ensure a ”safer supply” of illegal drugs for addicts. SURSAC was created via legislation in 2021 to provide suggestions to lawmakers regarding substance use policy and treatment options. In 2023, SURSAC released the Substance Use and Recovery Services Plan, which included forming a statewide work group to explore a framework for safe supply, rather than the more dangerous illicit street market for hard drugs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

‘Most Expensive Market’: Doordash to Raise Fees in Seattle Due to City Regulations

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 20:20:56 +0000

(The Center Square) – DoorDash is raising its service fees in Seattle – again – due to the city’s laws for app-based workers. The on-demand delivery and pickup services company says the hikes are necessary to continue services in Seattle, where the company operated at a loss in 2024. However, the company also reported $3 billion in revenue for the first quarter of 2025, with a 13.1% net revenue margin.

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WA Committee Distances From Drug Use Work Group’s ‘Buyers Club’ Suggestion

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 9 Jul 2025 21:50:54 +0000

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Bellingham Ratepayers Could See Double-Digit Utility Hikes Through 2028

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 8 Jul 2025 20:29:12 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Bellingham Public Works Department is considering utility rate increases with combined monthly costs for homeowners increasing $54 over the next three years in order to repair 100-year-old pipe infrastructure. The proposed combined-utility-wide bill increase is set at 12.7% in 2026, or approximately $152 per month for a single-family home.

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Weekend Edition | Spokane Camping Ban & Facility That Treats Drug-Addicted Newborns at Risk of Closure

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 4 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – After 35 years, the Pediatric Interim Care Center in Kent – the only specialized medical facility in western Washington caring for drug-exposed babies – stopped accepting new intakes on Monday. That’s because the Department of Children, Youth & Families canceled its contract with the Pediatric Interim Care Center, or PICC, citing state budget cuts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA Hotline Allows Illegal Immigrants to Report u.s. Citizens for First Amendment Activity

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 3 Jul 2025 20:24:30 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Office of the Attorney General has launched a taxpayer-funded hotline in three counties that would allow residents, including foreign nationals and illegal immigrants, to report U.S. citizens for engaging in legally protected speech and activity, in addition to hate crimes.

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WA Facility That Treats Drug-Addicted Newborns at Risk of Closure Due to Budget Cuts

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 2 Jul 2025 22:07:59 +0000

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‘Where Are You Going to Push Us?’: Spokane Passes New Citywide Camping Ban

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 1 Jul 2025 22:26:39 +0000

(The Center Square) – On the heels of an ethics complaint, the Spokane City Council passed a citywide camping ban on Monday, replacing another approved by nearly 75% of voters in 2023. The vote, split along ideological lines, follows over a year of proposals, community roundtables and allegations of quid pro quo between the progressive majority and Mayor Lisa Brown. They initially rejected the ban on June 16 but then reconsidered after much of the audience had left.

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Weekend Edition | Washington May Have to Dip Into Emergency Reserves, Despite Historic Tax Increases

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 28 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Despite passing the largest tax increase in state history amid record revenue levels, Washington state’s wallet may be empty by the end of the 2025-27 biennium, according to a new report by the state Economic and Revenue Forecast Council. While ERFC members noted during its Tuesday meeting that the news comes just as the state is entering the biennium, State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti, a former legislator, pointed out that the state can also turn to its rainy day fund. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Seattle PD Forwards Felony Assault Charge to Prosecutor 10 Days After Journalist Attacked

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 20:55:17 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle police detectives have identified the suspect and referred a felony assault charge to the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office against the alleged attacker in a brutal assault on an independent journalist covering anti-ICE protests in Seattle. Cam Higby told The Center Square that Antifa members assaulted him as he attended the June 14 “No Kings Day” protests in Seattle at a Department of Homeland Security building.

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WA May Have to Dip Into Emergency Reserves, Despite Historic Tax Increases

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 21:30:23 +0000

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Seattle City Council Eyes July Deadline to Fill Empty District 5 Seat

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 21:30:44 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle expects to have an upcoming city council vacancy filled by July 28 as council members prepare for more budget challenges this fall. Earlier this month, Seattle City Councilmember Cathy Moore announced that she was resigning from her position as the District 5 representative, citing health and personal reasons, which she considered “over the past several months.”

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https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_e38cbf7f-801d-4f73-a429-08f5676582bf.html

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Weekend Edition | Washington Family of Murder Victim Protests Potential Early Release of Killers

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington family of a man murdered by two teenagers in 2004 are speaking out against their potential early release by the state Intermediate Sentence Review Board, while a state House bill proposed this session could allow convicted killers to be released even earlier. In 2004, 14 year-old Jordan Castillo and 16 year-old Robert Suarez stabbed Bob Mars to death outside of Ki-Be Middle School, where he worked as a sixth-grade teacher, as part of a gang initiation. They were later found guilty of first-degree murder, with Suarez sentenced to 26 years and eight months, while Castillo was sentenced to 29 years and nine months. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington Family of Murder Victim Protests Potential Early Release of Killers

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 19:08:34 +0000

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Tukwila Mayor Flags ‘Cryptic’ DHS Message Amid Protest Outside Federal Facility

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:45:49 +0000

(The Center Square) – In the first Tukwila City Council meeting since an escalated protest occurred on Saturday, Mayor Thomas McLeod said the city was blindsided by strange messages related to Department of Homeland Security operations over the past weekend. According to McLeod, the city received a “cryptic and confusing message” late Friday afternoon that told individuals with pending immigration hearings to report to DHS on Saturday and Sunday to check in, with failure to report to be considered a violation.

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Spokane Council Revives 3‑Day Notice for Clearing Encampments After Reversal

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 22:05:25 +0000

(The Center Square) – After seven hours of debate and testimony, only half of Mayor Lisa Brown’s plan to overhaul Spokane’s response to homelessness passed on Monday night. Despite initially rejecting Brown’s plan to replace Proposition 1 – a camping ban that nearly 75% of voters approved in 2023 – the Spokane City Council amended a provision requiring at least a week’s notice before clearing encampments to only three days, delaying the final vote to June 30.

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Weekend Edition | ‘No Kings’ Anti-Trump Protests Planned for Several WA Cities This Saturday

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 14 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Cities across politically blue Washington state are set to participate in this weekend’s "No Kings Day" event, a series of nationwide protests and rallies against President Donald Trump's administration. The Saturday event is timed to coincide with a military parade planned in Washington, D.C. to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, which also falls on Trump's 79th birthday and Flag Day. The No Kings Day event, also known as the “Day of Defiance,” is being organized by grassroots political action groups, including Indivisible and the 50501 Movement, to protest the Trump administration's policies, which they describe as authoritarian. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Industry Leaders Urge WA Lawmakers to Change Course on Health Care Costs

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 22:24:22 +0000

(The Center Square) – Health care industry leaders in Washington state are growing concerned about price controls on providers and increased taxes on physician groups and hospitals, which could lead to further increased costs and a lack of consumer access. At a June 3 meeting of the Health Care Cost Transparency Board, several industry officials made it clear that some recently passed state legislation may be undermining the board’s goal of controlling health care costs.

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Washington AGO Task Force Struggles to Define ‘Domestic Violent Extremism’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 21:27:55 +0000

(The Center Square) - The Attorney General’s Office’s Domestic Extremism and Mass Violence Task Force has released its preliminary report on how to treat the issues from a public health perspective. However, it still faces a major challenge regarding what exactly constitutes “domestic violent extremism.” and whether the definition will be affected by the ideological views of the task force members. The preliminary report notes that “there is no universally agreed upon definition of domestic extremism (DE), and the term is undefined in the Revised Code of Washington.”

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Seattle Mayor Pushes Law Changes to Target Unruly Nightclubs

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 22:43:12 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell’s new proposal would amend the city’s chronic nuisance properties ordinance as part of a continued effort to curb gun violence around nightclubs. Currently Seattle’s chronic nuisance properties ordinance includes activities such as gun violence, assault, drug trafficking and prostitution. A property is declared a chronic nuisance if three or more nuisance activities are documented in a 60-day period or seven or more occur in any 12-month period.

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Weekend Edition | Spokane County Caught in Confusion Over DHS Sanctuary Designation

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 7 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Spokane County Commissioner Al French said on Tuesday that his peers should consider clarifying their stance on federal immigration enforcement due to recent events. Last week, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security posted a list of “sanctuary jurisdictions” online, including 35 states and the District of Columbia. Washington was one, with 36 of its 39 counties listed, with the addition of the cities of Everett, Olympia, Seattle, Tacoma and Yakima. Notably, Spokane County was included, but not the city of Spokane, which passed a resolution on Feb. 10, specifically reaffirming what many call Washington’s sanctuary state law. The county adheres to the Keep Washington Working Act, or KWWA, but hasn’t explicitly supported it like the city. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Emails Show WA AGO, Perkins Coie Colluded on Federal Lawsuit Against President Trump

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 5 Jun 2025 22:36:56 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle-based private law firm Perkins Coie and Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown collaborated on an amicus brief – or “friend of the court” – filed on behalf of the firm’s lawsuit in federal court against the Trump administration, emails obtained by The Center Square reveal. Those emails also reveal the private law firm received advice from the Attorney General's Office on where and when to file the lawsuit. A former Washington GOP attorney general candidate said the revelations raise ethics concerns.

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Spokane County Caught in Confusion Over DHS Sanctuary Designation

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 4 Jun 2025 22:42:27 +0000

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Board Stiff: Sound Transit Lacks Transit Expertise as Project Delays Drag On

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 3 Jun 2025 22:19:03 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Sound Transit Board of Directors has been criticized for a lack of transportation expertise among its members, as the agency continues to see delays to light rail expansion projects and cost overruns to major expansion projects despite massive funding. The Center Square previously reported that more than $21.8 billion in tax revenue was generated by Sound Transit between 1996 and 2023, with $10.3 billion raised between 2019 an 2023 alone. Despite this, the delays to the agency’s taxpayer-backed projects have continued, including the last two stations on the 2 line connecting across Lake Washington, which had their target opening of December 2025 moved to early 2026.

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Weekend Edition | Christian Gathering Outside Seattle City Hall Brings Trans Rights Protesters

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 31 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – More than 500 Christians gathered outside Seattle City Hall Tuesday evening to protest what they say are the anti-faith policies of Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and the Seattle City Council, just days after 23 people were arrested when counter-protesters interrupted a rally Saturday focused on protecting children from transgender ideologies. All of the arrests on Saturday were among counter protesters who also injured Seattle Police. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trucking Industry Accused of ‘Undermining’ Zero-Emission Vehicle Mandate

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 29 May 2025 22:18:56 +0000

(The Center Square) – As Congress contemplates repealing California’s ability to impose stricter emission standards than the federal Clean Air Act, which is currently also implemented in Washington state, the trucking industry continues to receive criticism for not cooperating with its implementation. Meanwhile the trucking industry continues to reiterate its stance that the regulations are not based in the realities of existing technology.

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Christian Gathering Outside Seattle City Hall Brings Trans Rights Protesters

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 28 May 2025 21:59:48 +0000

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Spokane Valley Needs More Cops — but Its Immigration Policy Could Get In the Way

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 27 May 2025 21:14:41 +0000

(The Center Square) – Around 20 officers short, Spokane Valley needs more funding to expand its police force, but the city might have shot itself in the foot with its immigration policy. Gov. Bob Ferguson signed House Bill 2015 on Monday, delivering on a day-one promise to put $100 million behind police recruiting during his first year in office. The law creates a .01% local sales tax that voters can approve in addition to two other existing public safety taxes.

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Weekend Edition | Gov. Ferguson Signs Washington’s $78B Operating Budget Into Law

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 24 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Gov. Bob Ferguson repeatedly said he would look for budget savings and efficiencies before agreeing to raise taxes on Washingtonians, but on Tuesday – the deadline for doing so – he signed Washington state’s nearly $78 billion, two-year operating budget into law that raises taxes by more than $9 billion over the next four years. The operating budget includes several tax increases, including a new business and occupation gross tax on storage units. The budget also includes increases to the state's two primary business and occupation tax rates on gross proceeds, an increase in the tax rate for service businesses with annual taxable revenue exceeding $5 million, and a broadened capital gains tax. There’s also a tax on the sale of electric vehicle credits, dubbed the “Tesla tax.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA Bill’s Changes to Public Pension Funding Could Cost Taxpayers, Critic Warns

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 22 May 2025 21:06:01 +0000

(The Center Square) - For years, Washington state’s public pension system has been considered one of the best funded in the nation. However, one critic of a new bill passed by the state Legislature warns that it could undermine the system’s solvency in the long term and at the expense of taxpayers. One of the key factors in actual assumptions is determining the assumed rate of return on investments that fund the system, which in turn determines how much the state Legislature must contribute.

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‘Largest Tax Increase in State History’: Gov Signs Wa’s $78B Operating Budget Into Law

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 21 May 2025 20:20:03 +0000

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Seattle’s High Buy-Rent Gap Stirs Policy Debate

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 20 May 2025 20:38:55 +0000

(The Center Square) – Housing market experts say rent control is a factor in Seattle having one of the biggest cost gaps between renting and buying. According to a recent study from Bankrate, the Seattle metro area has a buy-rent gap of 119.5%, behind only San Jose (185.6%) and San Francisco (190.7%), two other tech hubs. Sean Flynn, executive director at the Rental Housing Association of Washington, says the tech sector brought more high-wage jobs into Seattle, which drives up the price of homes and mortgages.

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Weekend Edition | Labor Board Investigating Employee’s Union Dues Complaint

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 17 May 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – A Washington state labor board is investigating a complaint filed by an employee with the city of Everett regarding dues paid to the local union after that employee attempted to opt out. While the National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation, representing the employee, claims the incident highlights ongoing problems with the process by which public workers can opt out of paying union dues, the local union and the city of Everett argue it was an administrative mistake that has since been resolved. In 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in its Janus decision that forcing public sector employees to pay dues to the union represented a violation of their First Amendment rights. In response, states such as Washington enacted new laws regarding the process by which public workers can opt out. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Spokane County Proposes Regional Task Force to Revive Jail Funding Measure

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 15 May 2025 21:23:47 +0000

(The Center Square) - Spokane County is preparing to establish a regional task force over the coming weeks to develop a tax proposal to fund a new jail after the last push fell short in 2023. The Board of County Commissioners and the Spokane Valley City Council both discussed the initiative during separate meetings on Tuesday. Commissioner Chris Jordan said the city of Spokane may bring it to a vote in the next few weeks, highlighting the regional collaboration.

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WA State Labor Board Investigating Everett Employee’s Union Dues Complaint

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 14 May 2025 21:43:52 +0000

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Redmond Light Rail Extension Opens Amid Years of Delays, Budget Changes

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 13 May 2025 21:15:49 +0000

(The Center Square) – Sound Transit opened its downtown Redmond extension after a year delay and $98 million tacked on after originally planned. The 3.4-mile extension of the 2 Line opened for service Saturday with two new stations at Marymoor Village and Downtown Redmond. The latest extension is the first Sound Transit 3 project.

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Weekend Edition | Sound Transit Economic Reality & Spokane's Homelessness Plan

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 10 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Much of the funding for Sound Transit’s projects, including ST3, has come from federal grants. In the past seven years, it has secured a total of $3.8 billion, with $9 billion expected in future grants for ST3. However, as the transit system struggles to recover its pre-pandemic ridership volumes, the agency faces a growing fiscal challenge due to what a spokesperson says are rising property values and increased construction costs. Those challenges could affect how much money it can expect, or need, from the federal government. In an email to The Center Square, Media Relations Manager John Gallagher wrote that “the agency has been transparent about the financial headwinds that we face on capital projects. We anticipate coming to the Board later this year with an update to the financial plan.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Economic Reality May Force Sound Transit to Revise Its Financial Plan

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 9 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

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WA Family at Center of Fight Over Trans Athletes Heartened by Federal OSPI Probe

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 8 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – A family in East Wenatchee, Wash., at the center of the controversy surrounding transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s sports, tells The Center Square they are reenergized now that the federal government has launched an investigation into the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. On Wednesday, the U.S. departments of Education and Justice announced their Title IX “Special Investigations Team” joint initiative, alleging that the state’s public schools agency has imposed gender-inclusion requirements on school districts in possible violation of federal law. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to ban transgender athletes from competing in women's and girls' sports.

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Spokane Unveils Homelessness Plan as Conservatives Say They Were Left in the Dark

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 7 May 2025 21:49:26 +0000

(The Center Square) – Mayor Lisa Brown unveiled an overhaul of Spokane’s homelessness strategy Thursday, pitting the city council’s progressive majority and conservative minority against each other once again. The proposals follow the Washington State Supreme Court striking down one of the city’s camping bans in April. The high court ruled that the citizen-led effort fell outside the scope of an initiative, so the conservatives tried to restore it with a council vote, but the majority declined.

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Weekend Edition | Seattle Spends Millions on Illegal Immigrants as Trump Admin Seeks to Deny Funds

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 3 May 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle spends roughly $6.5 million a year on complementary resources for illegal immigrants, even as the administration of President Donald Trump is taking major steps to reshape immigration policy and practice – with an emphasis on enforcement of federal law. According to city statistics, there are more than 143,687 foreign-born residents in Seattle, including 21,000 illegal immigrants who make up roughly 2.7% of the city’s total population of 755,000. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA Legislature Passes Rainier School Closure Bill That Includes New Transition Plans

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 13:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Outside of budget negotiations, one of the bills that dominated Washington state lawmakers' attention during the 2025 legislative session was a proposal to close a state-operated school for people with severe intellectual and developmental disabilities. With just hours to spare on Sunday – the last day of the 105-day legislative session – lawmakers passed a version of Senate Bill 5393 that will prohibit new long-term admissions to Rainier School in Pierce County starting July 27 and stop short-term admissions starting June 30, 2027. The changes were the result of a Republican amendment accepted by both chambers.

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Sound Transit Taxes Have Generated More Than $20 Billion in Almost 30 Years

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 20:48:06 +0000

(The Center Square) – In 1996, voters within the Sound Transit District voted to approve "Sound Move," which imposed a variety of local taxes to fund the construction of public transit such as bus lines, commuter trains and light rail. In the years to follow, voters would then approve ST2 in 2008 that added additional taxes or tax increases, followed by voter-approved ST3 in 2016, both of which expand or seek to expand on existing services.

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Seattle Spends Millions on Illegal Immigrants as Trump Admin Seeks to Deny Funds

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 22:01:09 +0000

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Weekend Edition | Tax Bills in Olympia & Seattle’s Debate Over Taxing the Rich

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 26 Apr 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle officials are weighing new progressive taxes as debate swirls over whether they would help or hurt the city’s already slumping revenue streams. On April 16, Seattle City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck announced that she is exploring progressive taxes that would make the city’s wealthiest residents pay more amid an anticipated $241.5 million drop in revenue over the next two years. The city previously closed a $250 million general fund gap for 2025-2026 using staffing cuts and its payroll tax. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Spokane City Council Shelves Ordinance to Reinstate Prop 1 – For Now

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 21:30:59 +0000

(The Center Square) – Despite overwhelming support, the Spokane City Council voted Monday against reinstating a public camping ban after the Washington State Supreme Court invalidated the law last week. The high court said Proposition 1, which 75% of voters approved in 2023, should have never been on the ballot. The justices ruled that the initiative was administrative, not legislative, as required by state law, because it altered an existing policy rather than creating a new one.

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WA House Finance Committee Gives Do-Pass Recommendation to Three Tax Bills

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 21:13:21 +0000

(The Center Square) – With the session winding down, the House Finance Committee on Tuesday advanced three tax bills out of executive session, giving them a do-pass recommendation. Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5794 aims to eliminate certain tax preferences, address changes in constitutional law, and clarify legislative intent. It proposes to eliminate some tax incentives deemed “obsolete” by the tax preference performance review process, including those affecting transportation, storage, and processing of goods, and packing of agricultural products.

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Seattle’s Slumping Revenue Reignites Debate Over Taxing the Rich

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 22:02:02 +0000

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Weekend Edition | WA Senate Passes Bill That Partly Revises Parents’ Bill of Rights Initiative

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 19 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Senate on Friday approved Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1296, one of this session’s most controversial and divisive pieces of legislation, on a 30-19 party-line vote. Majority party Democrats contend the bill will provide safeguards for K-12 students. Minority Republicans worry it could penalize schools and infringe on parental rights by undermining Initiative 2081, which lawmakers passed last year. I-2081 primarily focuses on providing parents with increased access to their child's school records, the right to review educational materials, and the ability to opt their child out of certain activities and instruction. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA Senate Passes Bill Regulating Presence of Out-Of-State National Guard

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Senate has passed a bill previously approved by the House of Representatives that would prohibit governors of other states from sending their National Guard into Washington without permission from the governor, a policy that has had some critics scratching their heads as to its relevance. “There's no reason for this bill because I believe that federal law already preamps this,” Sen. Jeff Wilson, R-Centralia, told colleagues on the Senate floor prior to the April 10 vote. “In other words, another governor is not going to send in their National Guard to another state.”

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Seattle Mayor Orders Belt-Tightening in Wake of Projected $241M Revenue Shortfall

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 17:21:25 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle is bracing for major spending cuts after a new revenue forecast shows revenues over the next two years, not including grants and transfers, are expected to be $241.5 million less than previously thought. That's under Thursday's "pessimistic" forecast the Seattle Economic and Revenue Forecast Council now considers more likely than its baseline forecast – a rare shift for the city – due to global economic uncertainty. The April pessimistic forecast anticipates a total 2025-26 general fund revenue decrease of $50.4 million, excluding grants and transfers.

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WA Legislature Passes Bill Eliminating Medical Debt From Consumer Credit Reports

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Legislature passed a bill on Wednesday that could offer significant relief to people drowning in medical debt, but critics warn it may drive up costs for everyone. Assuming Gov. Bob Ferguson signs Senate Bill 5480, the law will prohibit healthcare providers and collection agencies from reporting medical debt to credit firms. The vote opens the door for many individuals to secure housing, but not without raising concerns about unintended consequences.

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Weekend Edition | WA Senate Votes to Set a 10% Limit on Annual Rent Increases

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Senate on Thursday approved a 10% cap plus the consumer price index on annual rent increases, drastically changing a House of Representatives version of the bill that had a 7% cap. Following more than 90 minutes of floor debate, Engrossed House Bill 1217 passed on a 29-20 vote. Sen. Sharon Shewmake, D-Bellingham, sponsored the amendment to increase the rent cap to 10%. The amendment narrowly passed, 25-24. EHB 1217, one of the most controversial pieces of legislation introduced this session, now heads back to the House for approval of the changes made by the Senate. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Critics Warn WA Bill Could Raise Gas Prices by 40 Cents by 2031

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 21:21:26 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Senate Ways & Means Committee voted to advance a bill revising Washington state’s Clean Fuel Standard law amid concerns among critics who warn that the expedited schedule could jack up state gas prices even higher. “The more aggressive schedule that this bill would impose would add another 40 cents by 2031,” Sen. Keith Wagoner, R-Sedro Woolley, told the committee prior to Monday's vote on Second Substitute House Bill 1409. “We’re not even sure where this new clean fuel is coming from or whether we can manufacture it or not.”

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‘We Intend to Fight Back’: Jayapal, Inslee Rally 25K in Seattle Against Trump, Musk

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 8 Apr 2025 19:03:13 +0000

(The Center Square) – “This is a beautiful, coordinated action to take back our country and to show Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and these Republicans who are just spineless in this moment that we intend to fight back against unelected billionaires,” U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., said to roughly 25,000 demonstrators at a Saturday protest in Seattle. Jayapal was one of 21 speakers at the Seattle rally, which itself was one of more than 1,300 demonstrations as part of the nationwide “Hands Off!” event by civil rights organizations, labor unions, LGBTQ+ advocates, veterans and other activists.

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Washington State: Passions Run Deep on Both Sides of Rent Cap Bill at Senate Public Hearing

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 7 Apr 2025 20:14:42 +0000

(The Center Square) – Dozens of people turned out for a spirited public hearing Friday before the state Senate Ways & Means Committee on controversial legislation to cap yearly rent increases. Engrossed House Bill 1217 caps rent increases to 7% annually for most residential tenants, prohibits rent hikes during the first year of tenancy, and requires landlords to provide 90 days’ notice before raising rent in most cases. The bill passed the House of Representatives on March 10 and is now being considered by the Senate.

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Weekend Edition | Access Denied: Journalist Barred From Dems’ Weekly Media Availability Event

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 5 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Less than a week after the Washington State Senate adopted a rule change restricting credentialed members of the media from accessing “the wings” and adjacent rooms of the Senate, unless invited by a lawmaker or staff member, journalist Jonathan Choe received his credentials. He was denied access anyway. Choe, a journalist and senior fellow with Discovery Institute's Center on Wealth and Poverty, was denied access to Tuesday's weekly media availability event held by legislative Democratic leaders despite his newly issued one-week pass. The press rule change came after the Capitol Correspondents Association decided to return press credentialing authority to the Senate and House. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Complaint Alleges WA AGO ‘Actively Deceived’ Court About Contract With Perkins Coie

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 3 Apr 2025 20:40:46 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown last month filed an amicus brief in support of Perkins Coie, a private law firm that filed a lawsuit in response to President Donald Trump’s executive orders seeking to end federal contracts with the firm and revoke its security clearance. Although The Center Square reported that the AGO had recently subcontracted with Perkins Coie, it has now obtained documents showing that the contract with the law firm was renewed and set to expire later this year, which was not disclosed in the amicus brief.

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Washington State: Access Denied: Journalist Barred From Dems’ Weekly Media Availability Event

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 2 Apr 2025 21:45:42 +0000

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Number of Seattle Police Lateral Candidates Surges in 2024 and Into 2025

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 1 Apr 2025 19:49:49 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Seattle Police Department saw the number of lateral officer candidates in 2024 nearly double from the previous year, as city leaders tout progress in addressing the department’s post-pandemic staffing shortage. A lateral officer is an experienced, sworn law enforcement officer who transfers from one police department to another rather than being a new recruit. According to data collected by The Center Square, 34 lateral Seattle Police Department candidates passed the public safety civil service exams and were referred to the department for pre-employment screening.

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Weekend Edition | WA Gas Tax Hike Looks Increasingly Likely as Part of Transportation Budget

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 29 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – With the Washington state legislative session scheduled to adjourn one month from Thursday, lawmakers are getting down to the nitty-gritty work on massive budget proposals that will impact taxpayers. This week, majority party Democrats in the House and Senate unveiled competing transportation budget proposals. Both budgets call for increased gas taxes tied to inflation, and new fees to pay for ongoing projects and new priorities. The Senate plan calls for a 6 cents per gallon hike at the pump. That hike would bring the total state tax to 55.4 cents per gallon, before being tied to inflation. Beginning the following year, the state tax would then rise by 2% annually to account for inflation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bill Would Put Gas Tax, Vehicle Fee Increases on Automatic Pilot in Washington

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 16:47:07 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington state lawmakers are contemplating an increase in a variety of taxes and fees, including the gas tax and electric vehicle registration fee, to finance its proposed 2025-2027 transportation budget. While local government advocates spoke in support of it at a Tuesday public hearing in the House Transportation Committee, one person testifying pushed back against a provision that would cause taxes and fees to automatically increase without a legislative vote.

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Natural Gas Initiative Backers Plan to Take Their Case to WA Supreme Court

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 12:30:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Backers of Initiative 2066, which protects natural gas as an energy choice in Washington state, say they will take their case to the Washington Supreme Court after a judge’s ruling last week that I-2066 is unconstitutional. On Friday, King County Superior Court Judge Sandra Widlan ruled the scope of I-2066, approved by voters in November, was too broad and violated the state Constitution’s single-subject requirement.

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From Rights to Resumes: Spokane Punts ‘Homeless Bill of Rights’ for ‘Ban the Address'

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 18:26:05 +0000

(The Center Square) – After months of gridlock and stalled proposals, the Spokane City Council made good on its word to propose new policies around homelessness on Monday. Picking up the “Ban The Address” ordinance, the council floated the idea after a similar “Homeless Bill of Rights” failed last year. Councilmember Paul Dillon proposed the measure more than six months after asking residents for feedback on how the city handles the issue.

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Weekend Edition | Spokane County Braces for $20M Deficit in 2026, Potential Hiring Freeze, Cutting Vacancies

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - Providing what he called a “reality check” on Monday, Jeff McMorris, senior director of Spokane County’s Finance and Administration Division, warned of a $20 million deficit heading into 2026. McMorris, the brother of former U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Washington, told the Board of County Commissioners that this is a multiyear issue. He took over from Randy Bischoff, who held the positions until recently and helped balance a similar shortfall last summer into the fall.

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Let’s Go Washington Files Second Initiative to Uphold Parental Rights

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 22:57:14 +0000

(The Center Square) – Political action committee Let’s Go Washington introduced a second initiative on Monday to protect parents’ rights by repealing House Bill 1296. Earlier this month, the organization introduced an initiative to repeal Senate Bill 5181. HB 1296 and SB 5181 are both aimed at modifying LGW’s “parents’ bill of rights” Initiative 2081 passed by the Legislature last year.

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Budget Cuts Force King Co. Sheriff’s Office to Reduce Staffing at Two Precincts

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 22:09:52 +0000

(The Center Square) – The King County Sheriff's Office is reducing staff to minimal levels at two of its precincts due to budget constraints. Staffing at the Sheriff’s Office’s north and southeast precincts are being reduced, made effective on Monday, when the department announced the change in staffing. Impacted communities include parts of unincorporated King County, such as Redmond Ridge, Fairwood and Fall City.

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Spokane County Braces for $20M Deficit in 2026, Potential Hiring Freeze, Cutting Vacancies

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 21:23:08 +0000

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Weekend Edition | Washington House Dems Pass Bill Requiring Permits for Gun Purchases

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 15 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – After a vigorous hours-long debate that began the night before, Washington State Democrats in the House of Representatives on Saturday morning voted to pass legislation that would require would-be gun owners to obtain a permit before purchase. Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1163 passed along a 58-38 party-line vote – that is, with no Republican support. The bill would also have prospective gun owners complete a state-recognized firearm safety training course within the past five years to qualify for a permit. In addition, the bill requires enhanced background checks conducted via the Washington State Patrol’s firearms background check program, including state and federal databases Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

City Council Member in Washington Withdraws From Position Amid OnlyFans Controversy

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 19:43:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Lynnwood City Council has lost an appointed member within the same week of her appointment after her sexually explicit social media account was revealed. Jessica Ann Roberts – a transgender woman – was appointed to fill the Lynnwood City Council District 5 seat on Monday. The next day, the Lynwood Times reported on Roberts having an OnlyFans account, where she shared explicit content with 135 paid subscribers.

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How Washington Drivers May Be Funding Transit at the Gas Pump

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 20:52:36 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington drivers may be funding transit when they fill up their vehicles at the gas pump due not only to how carbon auctions under the Climate Commitment Act could be indirectly raising gas prices, but how CCA money has been appropriated by the state Legislature. As of the most recent report by the Department of Ecology, in the fiscal year 2024 almost half of all CCA revenue spent originated from an account designated specifically for transit related projects.

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WA House Advances Bill Allowing Judges to Drop Charges for Low-Level Offenders

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 20:13:37 +0000

(The Center Square) – House Democrats advanced a bill Saturday attempting to create a pathway to rehabilitation by allowing judges to dismiss charges upon “substantial compliance” with court-ordered conditions. Intended for low-level offenses, Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1113 expands judicial authority over diversion opportunities. Typically, those fall under prosecutorial discretion, but if approved by the state Senate, ESHB 1113 would hand power over to the judge and defense attorneys.

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Washington House Dems Pass Bill Requiring Permits for Gun Purchases

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 22:34:29 +0000

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Weekend Edition | Title IX Complaint Filed Against Gov. Ferguson

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 8 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal and Gov. Bob Ferguson are named in a Title IX complaint resolution filed Friday by Washington Parents Network. WPN is a volunteer association of more than 2,600 parents whose goal is to protect the rights of parents and children. The complaint was filed with the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights. WPN Executive Director David Spring told The Center Square the organization has been preparing the complaint for more than a year, but hoped it wouldn’t come to the point that it had to be filed. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington Parents Network Files Title IX Complaint Against Reykdal, Ferguson

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 6 Mar 2025 21:29:31 +0000

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Spokane Prepares for Overhaul After Months of Community Debate Over Homelessness

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 5 Mar 2025 21:17:47 +0000

(The Center Square) – Six months ago, Spokane advertised a series of roundtables to gather input on overhauling its approach to homelessness; 186 days later, residents are starting to get a picture of what that could look like. While announced in August, the series lasted into December before the city council wrapped up talks that would inform its overhaul. Two months went by without much mention, but rumors circulated among city staff that the council might introduce the proposed amendments on Monday.

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Almost 90% of CCA-Funded Projects in Washington Don’t Reduce Carbon Emissions

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 4 Mar 2025 23:05:36 +0000

(The Center Square) – The 2021 Climate Commitment Act enacted by the state Legislature places a cap on the amount of allowable carbon emissions and generates revenue through carbon auctions that are used to fund environmental projects throughout the state. However, almost 90% of project spending does not impact carbon emissions.

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Burien Sues Organizer of Voter-Approved Minimum Wage Measure Set to Start in April

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 3 Mar 2025 19:46:52 +0000

(The Center Square) – The city of Burien has filed a lawsuit intended to halt the adoption of a voter-passed minimum wage increase in the city, but leaders of the measure say the lawsuit has no merit. Initiative 1 in Burien was approved by 57.2% of voters in the Feb. 11 election. It would raise the minimum wage in the city to $21.10 for workers of large employers who have more than 500 employees.

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Weekend Edition | GOP: Dems Overstating WA’s Projected Budget Shortfall as Cover for Higher Taxes

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 1 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Republicans in the Washington State Legislature say Democrats are exaggerating the size of the projected four-year operating budget shortfall to justify proposed tax increases. The amount of the shortfall itself is a matter of some debate. In November, the Office of Financial Management indicated the state would be $10 to $12 billion in the hole over the next four years. A month later, then-Gov. Jay Inslee announced that the number had jumped to $16 billion. He said the deficit was even greater than first projected. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA Bill Could End Tax Cap for Major Tech Companies Amid State Budget Shortfall

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Microsoft and Amazon are among the wealthiest companies in the world, each with a market capitalization of well over $2 trillion, but a bill out of Washington could trim off some cash to save the state’s finances. The Legislature levies various taxes on businesses operating within its borders. One of the most common is a business and occupation, or B&O, tax. The state requires some companies, including major tech firms, to pay more, but the higher rate also comes with a cap.

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GOP: Dems Overstating WA’s Projected Budget Shortfall as Cover for Higher Taxes

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 22:11:17 +0000

Washington State: (The Center Square) – Republicans in the Washington State Legislature say Democrats are exaggerating the size of the projected four-year operating budget shortfall to justify proposed tax increases. The amount of the shortfall itself is a matter of some debate. In November, the Office of Financial Management indicated the state would be $10 to $12 billion in the hole over the next four years. A month later, then-Gov. Jay Inslee announced that the number had jumped to $16 billion. He said the deficit was even greater than first projected.

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Washington Committee Passes Revised Bill Adding Transparency to Pretrial Release

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 22:54:43 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Washington State Legislature's House Community Safety Committee has voted out a revised version of a bill that places more safeguards around the pretrial release of criminal suspects by court judges. Though the bill cosponsor, Rep. Dan Griffey, R-Allyn, expressed a preference for the original bill, he urged the substitute’s adoption prior to a Thursday Community Safety Committee vote.

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King County Metro Resumes Bus Services at Crime-Riddled Corridor in Seattle

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 20:33:17 +0000

(The Center Square) – King County Metro is resuming bus services at a Seattle location that became an increasing public safety concern at the end of 2024. King County Metro closed bus stops along 12th Avenue South and South Jackson Street in Seattle’s Little Saigon neighborhood on Dec. 16. The department previously told The Center Square that the area was flagged as a safety concern for riders, transit operators and facilities employees.

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Weekend Edition | Bill Dubbed by Critics as the ‘Initiative Killer’ Passed Out of Senate Committee

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

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Bill Dubbed by Critics as the ‘Initiative Killer’ Passed Out of Senate Committee

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - Washington Democrats on Tuesday passed a bill out of the Senate Government, Tribal Relations & Elections Committee, dubbed by critics to be the “initiative killer.” SB 5382, sponsored by Sen. Javier Valdez, D-Seattle, who chairs the Government, Tribal Relations and Elections Committee, would require signature gatherers circulating initiative and referendum petitions to sign declarations attesting to the validity of the voter who has signed.

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WA Officials: Lessons to Be Learned From California’s High-Speed Rail ‘Disaster’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 23:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - As California’s high-speed rail project lays its first tracks after spending billions of dollars since 2006, Washington officials are already looking at lessons to be learned on how to avoid a similar outcome as they work on their own multi-state, multi-national bullet train. Since 2016, the state Legislature has explored the creation of a ultra high-speed rail line that would connect Vancouver, B.C. to Seattle and Portland, with then-Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee and British Columbia Premier Christy Clark signing a memorandum of understanding.

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Spokane Advocates March at Dawn, Demand Action Against Homelessness Crisis

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) - While some celebrated by sleeping in, more than a dozen Spokanites woke up on Presidents Day to march for change in the face of homelessness. In their “call for urgency,” the advocates set out on a 5 a.m. “crisis walk” Monday to demand immediate, coordinated action against the regional crisis. Despite freezing temperatures, business owners, service providers and residents trekked from one government building to another.

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Sound Transit CEO Candidate Details Remain Confidential Amid Calls to Publicize Names

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 22:11:46 +0000

(The Center Square) – The Seattle area’s public transit agency is keeping candidate details confidential amid its search for its next permanent CEO, but transit advocates are calling for a transparent and public-involved process. Sound Transit narrowed down its list of candidates for the CEO position to five. However, details about most of the candidates have remained undisclosed from the public.The lone exception is King County Executive Dow Constantine, who also serves as a board member for Sound Transit. During the Sound Transit Executive Special Meeting, Constantine confirmed he is pursuing the CEO position as he is finishing up his fourth term as county lead and not running for reelection this year.

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Weekend Edition | WA Senator Insists Controversial Remarks on Parents’ Rights Taken Out of Context

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington State Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, is standing by comments he made last week to a Fox News reporter about 13-year-old children making their own health care decisions without parents’ knowledge or consent. Pedersen’s comments went viral, drawing millions of views and reposts on social media. Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency under President Donald Trump, even got involved in a social media exchange over the quote. “Kids over 13 have the complete right to make their own decisions about their mental health care,” Pedersen said during a Feb. 5 television interview. “Parents don’t have a right to have notice, they don’t have a right to have consent about that.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA Senator Insists Controversial Remarks on Parents’ Rights Taken Out of Context

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

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Two Seattle Schools Levies to Be Voted on Amid Some Unfavorable Survey Results

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 21:18:36 +0000

(The Center Square) – The fate of two levies from Seattle Public Schools will be determined on Tuesday by Seattle voters, amid recent survey results showing that parents of former students were dissatisfied with the quality of the education their children received. Currently, Seattle Public Schools’ current tax rate is $1.85 per $1,000 of assessed property value. This includes the three-year Educational Programs and Operations Levy, the six-year Building Excellence VI Capital Levy, and the continuing Building, Technology and Academics Capital Levy approved in 2022.

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https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_89b7056a-e7ee-11ef-a47a-bf8c23728a96.html

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A Line in the Sand: Spokane Reaffirms Immigration Stance Amid Federal Pressure

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 14:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – With a federal crackdown underway, the Spokane City Council fast-tracked a vote Monday to reaffirm state law restricting how much local law enforcement can participate with immigration authorities. The approval followed a last-minute decision to amend Monday’s agenda just hours before the meeting. Originally set for Feb. 24, the progressive majority moved the vote up amid speculation over local enforcement.

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Washington Bill Would Bolster ‘Shield Law’ for Abortions & Gender Procedures

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 22:52:07 +0000

(The Center Square) – A bill introduced in the Washington State Legislature this session would bolster an existing law that seeks to shield individuals receiving or providing “protected health care services,” such as abortion or gender reassignment procedures on minors. In 2023, the state Legislature enacted what is known as the Shield Law, which restricts the ability of courts and law enforcement to either issue or enforce any subpoenas, warrants, or extradition for civil or criminal liability related to “protected health services” as defined by state law.

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Weekend Edition | Senate Dems Approve Bill to Change Provisions of ‘Parents’ Bill of Rights’ Initiative

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 8 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Less than a year after Washington state lawmakers approved a parental rights initiative for those with children enrolled in public schools, majority party Democrats on Wednesday passed a bill out of the Senate that would rewrite provisions of the initiative. Senate Bill 5181 is described as amending the “parents’ bill of rights” initiative to align it with existing law. It would modify the initiative’s notification timeline for criminal acts involving students to reconcile it with Washington’s 48-hour rule, as opposed to immediately. Initiative 2081, adopted by lawmakers in 2024, gave parents and legal guardians of public-school children the right to access information about their child's academic, medical, safety, and law enforcement matters. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Senate Dems approve bill to change provisions of 'parents' bill of rights' initiative

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 6 Feb 2025 22:34:40 +0000

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Downtown Crackdown: Spokane Limits Sale of Booze, Pipes Without Free Naloxone

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 5 Feb 2025 20:16:39 +0000

(The Center Square) – With few solutions left, Spokane has banned single-serve alcohol sales downtown, as well as drug paraphernalia, unless the seller also provides free naloxone. The Spokane City Council gave its final approval over two related ordinances Monday night. The first established an Alcohol Impact Area, or AIA, within the Spokane Police Department's downtown precinct, while the second created a Community Health Impact Area, also known as CHIA.

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Washington State Public Health Bill Receives Lopsided Critical Testimony

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 4 Feb 2025 20:25:59 +0000

(The Center Square) – A Washington bill that would add new language to existing state law about “appropriate measures” regarding vaccines to control the spread of communicable diseases received lopsided testimony in opposition during its public hearing before the House Health Care & Wellness Committee. Among the criticism cited by opponents was what they considered to be vague bill language, potential for abuse of power of power, and how it might strip local health jurisdictions of their ability to make decisions most appropriate for their regions.

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Seattle Forms Committee in Response to Threats of Federal Funding Halts

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 3 Feb 2025 21:25:07 +0000

(The Center Square) – Seattle officials are adapting to federal changes with the formation of a new committee as federal departments threaten to cut funding to the city. So far in 2025, President Donald Trump has signed 45 executive orders as of Jan. 29. These orders address gender-affirming care, leaving the World Health Organization, renaming the Gulf of Mexico and Mount Denali in Alaska, and immigration.

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Weekend Edition | $45 Million EV Rebate Program Exhausted by High-Income Earners

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 1 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington state’s $45 million Electric Vehicle Instant Rebate Program for buying or leasing electric vehicles fell far short of promises to deliver environmental results and help middle-income people buy EVs, concluded a Washington Policy Center policy brief released on Wednesday. According to the Washington State Department of Commerce, the program provided up to $9,000 off a new EV lease for low-income drivers at the point of sale. The state agency claimed this translates into lease payments under $200 a month, well below the average gas-powered automobile payment of more than $700 a month. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA House Dems Change 132-Year-Old Rule Requiring Supermajority to End Debates

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000

For 132 years, a rule has existed in the Washington State Legislature's House of Representatives requiring a supermajority to suspend debate on a bill that has come to the floor. Last week, House legislators voted 54-33 to alter that rule, so that now only a majority is required to end debate. Currently, the House is composed of 59 Democrats and 39 Republicans.

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WA Considers Paying Parents for Caring for Disabled Kids Amid In-Home Shortages

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 18:53:55 +0000

(The Center Square) – Washington may soon join Illinois, California and other states in compensating the parents of developmentally disabled children under legislation considered by the Senate on Monday. State lawmakers proposed something similar last year but failed to get it out of the Legislature. If approved, Senate Bill 5211 would allow parents to receive payments for providing what qualifies as “extraordinary care.” However, there is a stipulation attached. The bipartisan proposal would require the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to amend certain waivers to allow for the payments.

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Sound Transit Declares Emergency to Expedite Light Rail Reliability Fixes

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 18:43:42 +0000

(The Center Square) – Sound Transit’s light rail reliability issues led its board of directors on Thursday to ratify an emergency measure to hasten work on necessary fixes. Goran Sparrman, Sound Transit's interim CEO, declared an emergency in a written finding on Tuesday. After Sparrman issued his finding, staff gave existing contractor HNTB Corporation permission to come up with a project management plan to improve operational reliability in terms of bettering performance, security and safety. HNTB’s work will not exceed $1.5 million.

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Weekend Edition | Bill Critics Say Undermines Parents’ Bill of Rights Initiative Gets a Public Hearing

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 25 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(The Center Square) – The brief introductory summary of House Bill 1296 describes it as “Promoting a safe and supportive public education system.” Critics of the legislation contend it’s designed to undermine Initiative 2081, the parents’ bill of rights passed by the Washington State Legislature last year. According to the text of HB 1296, it aims to promote a safe and supportive school system by addressing student rights, parental/guardian rights, employee protections, and requirements for state and local school districts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bill Critics Say Undermines Parents’ Bill of Rights Initiative Gets a Public Hearing

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 20:06:53 +0000

(The Center Square) – The brief introductory summary of House Bill 1296 describes it as “Promoting a safe and supportive public education system.” Critics of the legislation contend it’s designed to undermine Initiative 2081, the parents’ bill of rights passed by the Washington State Legislature last year. According to the text of HB 1296, it aims to promote a safe and supportive school system by addressing student rights, parental/guardian rights, employee protections, and requirements for state and local school districts. I-2081 grants parents of public school students the right to review classroom materials, including textbooks and curriculum, and easily access their child’s academic and medical records.

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Seattle PD Facing Challenges in Recruiting More Women to the Job

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 19:40:07 +0000

The Seattle Police Department's goal of increasing female officer staffing levels to 30% by 2030 as part of its 30x30 Initiative remains elusive. According to data collected by The Center Square, SPD’s female entry-level hires made up 10% of the 1,163 candidates who were sent to the department for pre-employment screening. That is a 3% increase from 2023, but 3% less than hires made in 2022.

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Washington Senate Adds CPL Exemption to Bill Banning Firearms at 5,300+ Locations

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 19:17:44 +0000

After Democrats pushed a bill last week to ban the possession of a firearm at more than 5,300 places, Republicans managed to add an exemption Thursday for people with a concealed pistol license. The majority attempted to do the same last year when passing another bill to ban the possession of firearms and weapons at several other locations. However, like Thursday, the minority convinced their peers across the aisle to add the CPL exemption.

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Washington Hate Crime Bill Advances Through House Committee

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 22:03:38 +0000

A Washington House committee voted to advance a bill that would broaden the definition of a hate crime in the state, and remarks by a ranking committee members indicate it could include non-violent acts or speech. House Bill 1052 sponsored by Rep. Cindy Ryu, D-Shoreline, would expand what constitutes a hate crime to include incidents where the perpetrator did so “in part or the whole” due to a person’s perceived identity. Although existing laws concerns acts of violence or destruction of property, Darya Farivar, D-Seattle, recounted a story prior to the committee’s Thursday vote where she witnessed a transit rider berate a fellow rider for wearing hijab, saying the rider was “yelling and kicking and saying to this woman, ‘I'm a Christian, you b---h!’” “The interaction very clearly to me indicated that this would be a hate crime, and it was not because of how strict our laws are around this,” she told colleagues.

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Weekend Edition | Inslee's Final State of the State & New Governor Ferguson

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 18 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000

(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.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Inslee’s Final State of the State Address Touts Increased State Spending Since 2013

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000

(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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 21:43:55 +0000

(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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 21:31:09 +0000

(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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 21:29:39 +0000

(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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 12:25:42 +0000

(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.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington Democrats Leak $15 Billion Tax Increase Plans

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 3 Jan 2025 13:32:51 +0000

(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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Inslee Proposes Billions in New Taxes on Way Out of Office

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:19:22 +0000

(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.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

King County Executive Doubles Down on Housing-First Approach to Homelessness

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 13:37:09 +0000

(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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 6 Dec 2024 14:18:03 +0000

(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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Driver Behind Washington State’s Budget Shortfall

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 21:59:50 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WSU’s $5 Million Contract With It Company May Have Violated State Law

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 14:31:11 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Seattle City Economists: Proposed 2% Capital Gains Tax Could Spur Wealth Exodus

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 15:37:51 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA GOP Says AG ‘Weaponized’ Ballot Impact Statements on Initiatives

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 8 Nov 2024 14:52:46 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

FBI Drop Box Arson Investigation Continues as WA Law Enforcement Step up Patrols

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 1 Nov 2024 16:02:41 +0000

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." Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 13:56:15 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WA GOP Chair: Cities Opposed to Initiatives Motivated by Potential Loss of Revenue

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 20:37:09 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Top WA Provider for Minor Gender Reassignment Procedures Previously Fined $5 Million

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:41:09 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington Candidates for Secretary of State Clash Over Disinformation, Residency

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 4 Oct 2024 17:14:29 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fact Check: Critics Say Washington's Initiative 2117 Would Cut Transportation Funding

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 17:31:35 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 12:43:08 +0000

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.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ferguson, Reichert Exchange Jabs During Gubernatorial Debate

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 14:41:40 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Seattleites Call on City Council to Reject Permanent Tiered Minimum Wage Bill

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 6 Sep 2024 15:38:25 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

King County Council Signals Approval of Changes to KCRHA Government Structure

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 13:32:28 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington Truckers Warn California Emissions Policy Threatens Supply Chain

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 14:15:50 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Outrage Continues Over Quiet Attempt to Invalidate WA Initiatives

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 15:26:51 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ferguson and Reichert to Face off for Washington Governor in November

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 9 Aug 2024 14:23:44 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thurston County Sheriff: Police Pursuit Law Change Sees Fewer Drivers Fleeing Overall

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 1 Aug 2024 21:48:29 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington State Agency Defends Giving AGO Investigation of Tort Claim Against It

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 19:44:06 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 19:15:16 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Violent Crime Down, Vehicle Theft up in Latest Crime in Washington Report

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 19:00:25 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 3 Jul 2024 18:56:36 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Initiative to Repeal Cap-And-Trade May Already Be Lowering Carbon Auction Prices

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AGO Draws Criticism for Advising SOS on Ballot Issue Involving AG Ferguson

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 16:50:23 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Law Banning Child Marriages in Washington State Now in Effect

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 13:32:42 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washingtonians Hope for Safer Streets on Eve of Police Pursuit Law Change

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 7 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 31 May 2024 13:28:35 +0000

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.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Internal Investigation: WSDOT Economist’s Claims He Was Forced Out Not Substantiated

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 24 May 2024 13:55:27 +0000

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Inslee Makes His Case for Voters to Preserve Climate Commitment Act

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 17 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

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

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KCRHA Makes Its Case Amid Homelessness Crisis, Increased Spending

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 10 May 2024 15:32:06 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 3 May 2024 13:57:13 +0000

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?

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 09:27:00 +0000

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.

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 14:35:14 +0000

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.

Full Story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_c6ddde08-fd18-11ee-89eb-3f0437925545.html

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The Uncertain Future of Natural Gas in Washington State

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 13:35:34 +0000

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’?

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 5 Apr 2024 13:42:10 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 12:47:09 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 15:25:50 +0000

(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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 14:15:21 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 8 Mar 2024 15:14:24 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 1 Mar 2024 14:00:52 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:23:29 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 14:35:20 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 9 Feb 2024 15:48:51 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 2 Feb 2024 13:40:43 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 15:35:44 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 14:31:20 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 14:11:25 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 5 Jan 2024 15:55:53 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 13:44:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 15:04:32 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 16:14:31 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 9 Dec 2023 10:21:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 8 Dec 2023 18:20:13 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 7 Dec 2023 22:54:27 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 2 Dec 2023 11:37:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 1 Dec 2023 16:36:56 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 20:38:15 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 10:19:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 21:19:49 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 18 Nov 2023 11:51:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 16:10:06 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 23:45:06 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 11 Nov 2023 12:03:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 16:02:55 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 9 Nov 2023 22:11:19 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 4 Nov 2023 10:41:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 3 Nov 2023 15:53:57 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 2 Nov 2023 18:18:03 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 09:48:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 14:49:31 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 18:59:34 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 21 Oct 2023 10:03:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 15:02:20 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 22:09:57 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 10:49:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 20:49:22 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 6 Oct 2023 09:15:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 5 Oct 2023 21:15:30 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 30 Sep 2023 10:48:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 17:45:08 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 19:25:30 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 11:31:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 11:28:00 +0000

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'

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 18:28:21 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 16 Sep 2023 10:26:00 +0000

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’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 16:26:03 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 21:26:51 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 9 Sep 2023 16:27:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 8 Sep 2023 16:27:20 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 7 Sep 2023 20:38:53 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 2 Sep 2023 09:19:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 1 Sep 2023 19:18:50 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 21:52:18 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 12:23:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 12:23:25 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 21:22:53 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 19 Aug 2023 11:40:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 10:38:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 18:37:32 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 12 Aug 2023 10:09:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 10:07:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 22:07:18 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 5 Aug 2023 10:47:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 4 Aug 2023 17:46:54 +0000

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?

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 3 Aug 2023 19:27:51 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 29 Jul 2023 10:40:00 +0000

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’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 16:40:22 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 22 Jul 2023 09:39:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 19:39:19 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 21:58:14 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 15 Jul 2023 10:21:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 20:20:27 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 22:39:02 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 8 Jul 2023 12:36:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 7 Jul 2023 12:36:29 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 6 Jul 2023 21:37:30 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 1 Jul 2023 08:24:00 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 20:24:04 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:46:19 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 24 Jun 2023 08:50:53 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 08:48:41 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 20:47:19 +0000

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’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 17 Jun 2023 09:58:51 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 09:57:21 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 21:56:11 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 10:56:30 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 9 Jun 2023 10:46:42 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 8 Jun 2023 21:45:43 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 2 Jun 2023 10:54:52 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 1 Jun 2023 22:10:13 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 26 May 2023 09:15:01 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 25 May 2023 16:58:10 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 20 May 2023 09:23:12 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 19 May 2023 10:45:01 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 18 May 2023 18:03:59 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 13 May 2023 11:15:33 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 12 May 2023 11:15:13 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 11 May 2023 16:51:02 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 6 May 2023 11:40:18 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 5 May 2023 17:29:32 +0000

"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’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 4 May 2023 18:44:03 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 12:24:47 +0000

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’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 11:23:23 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 17:48:45 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 11:42:36 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 22 Apr 2023 11:37:24 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 17:23:19 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 15:28:36 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 17:27:56 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 8 Apr 2023 10:25:50 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 7 Apr 2023 15:11:37 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 6 Apr 2023 21:14:26 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sun, 2 Apr 2023 10:56:40 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 1 Apr 2023 10:54:52 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 17:13:29 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sun, 26 Mar 2023 11:04:01 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 10:55:50 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 18:20:13 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sun, 19 Mar 2023 10:51:44 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 11:20:43 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 17:41:59 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 11:21:02 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 11 Mar 2023 12:23:10 +0000

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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Road Ahead Unclear for Police Pursuit Reform in Washington Legislature

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 19:00:41 +0000

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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Emergency Powers Reform Bills Seemingly Dead in WA Legislature

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sun, 5 Mar 2023 12:00:09 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 4 Mar 2023 12:00:17 +0000

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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Bill Would Consolidate Deadly Use of Force Prosecutions in Washington AG’s Office

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 3 Mar 2023 19:12:47 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 22:06:57 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 16:05:16 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 19:03:12 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 19:15:41 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 21:33:28 +0000

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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Episode 44: Study Propping up Washington Police Pursuit Law Called Into Question

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 3 Feb 2023 20:01:07 +0000

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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Episode 43: Capital Gains Tax Has Its Day in Washington’s Highest Court

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 21:14:56 +0000

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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Episode 42: Washington House Seats Member Accused of Misrepresenting Service Record on Veterans Committee

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 21:03:59 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 20:37:12 +0000

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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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.

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Episode 40: King County Confirms 24% Spike in Overdose Deaths in 2022

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 6 Jan 2023 20:31:08 +0000

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.

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

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 11:00:31 +0000

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’

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 00:16:18 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 20:35:22 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 9 Dec 2022 21:30:01 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 2 Dec 2022 18:50:27 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 18:00:14 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 20:03:07 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 13:32:54 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 4 Nov 2022 18:01:46 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 17:15:45 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 17:59:54 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 17:01:13 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 7 Oct 2022 17:59:46 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 17:46:33 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 16:53:17 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 17:14:31 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 9 Sep 2022 16:55:03 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 2 Sep 2022 17:09:17 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 17:16:04 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 17:11:06 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:22:51 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 5 Aug 2022 17:57:47 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Wed, 3 Aug 2022 16:20:20 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 17:31:42 +0000

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'

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 17:46:34 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 00:23:29 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 8 Jul 2022 17:01:14 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 1 Jul 2022 18:45:11 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 17:00:54 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 16:44:32 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 18:10:58 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 3 Jun 2022 16:42:19 +0000

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'

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 27 May 2022 17:27:39 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 20 May 2022 16:52:42 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 13 May 2022 17:12:46 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 6 May 2022 19:01:49 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 16:51:48 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 17:44:24 +0000

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

washingtoninfocus@gmail.com (The Center Square) — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 17:45:29 +0000

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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