WA library programs, services at risk due to grant terminations

The Washington Secretary of State says the grant terminations put the Washington State Library at risk of losing personnel, statewide programs, resources and more.

Rent cap bill goes back to WA House with changes
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A showdown between both chambers of the legislature is set, as the Senate made major changes to legislation passed by the House to put a limit on rent increases.

WA legislature considers tax on online dating companies

The bill would tax online dating companies $1 per month for every Washingtonian using an online dating service.

Possible WA tax on online dating companies
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Taxing Cupid to generate millions of dollars: that's the goal of one bill in the Washington state legislature targeting online dating companies.

Washington lawmakers debate raising property taxes to bring in more money

House and Senate Democrats have proposed raising property taxes, arguing more funding is needed for schools and public safety. Republicans say the idea will price people out of their homes.

WA lawmakers debate increase of property tax revenue cap
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With Washington legislators trying to balance the state budget, negotiations have shifted to increasing property taxes.

Conservative watchdogs raise red flags in WA state budget
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Are funds pledged to make Washington greener instead being rewarded to political allies? Half-a-million dollars earmarked in the state budget is raising some serious red flags for one conservative watchdog group.

WA budget kickback? Ex-Gov. Inslee advisor tied to $500K allocation

A Washington think-tank claims a former Gov. Inslee maritime advisor is enjoying kickbacks from the state's budget, directing some $500,000 in Climate Commitment Act funding to the firm he's tied to.

WA Senate passes bill to exclude juvenile facilities from prison riot laws

Supporters of House Bill 1815 argue current standards around prison riots are unfairly applied to inmates at juvenile facilities, while opponents worry getting rid of the rules would enhance already dangerous environments.

WA vote to exclude juvenile facilities from prison riot laws
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The Washington state Senate just passed a bill that excludes juvenile facilities from laws around punishments for prison riots.

WA effort to ban flavored tobacco products
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Previously thought to be dead for the year, lawmakers heard legislation Monday that would ban flavored vapes and cigarettes.

Effort to ban flavored tobacco products in WA revived in legislature

A new bill takes the extra step of increasing taxes on manufacturing, selling and buying all other tobacco products to bring in more revenue.

WA sues Trump to protect election integrity
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Washington and Oregon are suing over President Trump's executive order to require proof of citizenship for voter registration.

Unemployment benefits for striking workers being considered in WA, OR

Oregon and Washington lawmakers are considering unemployment benefits for striking workers, following recent walkouts by Boeing, nurses and teachers.

WA Democrats thinking about revenue options after governor’s criticism

Washington Democrats are thinking about next steps after Gov. Bob Ferguson criticized their revenue options, saying the proposals have “far too much in taxes."

Washington small businesses and organizations push back on tax proposals

Small businesses across Washington are bracing themselves for a slate of proposed taxes aimed to plug the state's $13 billion budget shortfall.

7 million pounds of WA food at risk as federal cuts loom

Food banks in Washington are bracing for federal budget cuts that could result in the loss of 7 million pounds of food.

WA lawmakers consider tax based on fuel efficiency to fund transportation

The “highway use fee” proposed in the House would result in an annual charge based on how fuel efficient a car is. Some argue it's necessary as gas tax revenue falls due to increasing car efficiency.