News
New laws bring changes to minimum wage, plastic silverware, voting rights for felons
Two taxes take effect, but the future of each is uncertain.
News
Legal fight on redistricting returning to the Supreme Court
Two lawsuits say the plans aren’t valid because commissioners broke state law before voting to approve them.
News
Senator becomes first GOP candidate for secretary of state
Sen. Keith Wagoner will challenge Democrat Steve Hobbs, who was appointed to the statewide post in November
Northwest
Inslee: State agency vehicles must be all-electric by 2035
Gov. Jay Inslee has signed an executive order aimed at transitioning state government to an all-electric fleet of…
News
Bipartisan commission fails to draw new political boundaries
For the first time in state history, the Supreme Court will define new congressional and legislative districts.
Northwest
Sen. Steve Hobbs named secretary of state
Gov. Jay Inslee appointed the Snohomish County Democrat to succeed departing Republican Kim Wyman.
News
Rather than get vaccine, nearly 1,900 state workers lose jobs
Exactly how many people will be out of work for ignoring Gov. Jay Inslee’s vaccine mandate isn’t known…
News
Inslee: No ‘massive disruptions’ as worker vax rates hit 90%
A surge in vaccinations has eased concern about service slowdowns ahead of a Monday deadline.
News
Masks required at big outdoor events; vaccine mandates expanded
Governor’s mask order takes effect Sept. 13.
News
State workers get incentive to comply with vaccine mandate
An agreement between the state and their union also provides for some leeway in meeting the deadline.
News
Governor reinstates indoor mask rule, whether you’re vaxed or not
Inslee also ordered employees of public schools, colleges and child care centers to get vaccinated.
News
State schools chief urges a vaccine mandate for teachers
The superintendent of public instruction says the governor should require vaccinations for school employees.
Northwest
State ferry fares to rise this fall, and even more next fall
The 2.5% hike in each of the next two years will apply to everyone: drivers, bikers and walkers.
News
Governor will require state employees to get COVID vaccine
Workers must do so by mid-October to keep their jobs. The order also covers long-term care providers.
Northwest
With fewer inmates, state prepares to close prison units
In Monroe, two minimum security units will shut down soon, followed by the Washington State Reformatory.
News
Governor lifts restrictions, but health officials warn the pandemic is not over
As of June 30, bar-goers are able to stand shoulder-to-shoulder and diners can sit at restaurant tables that…
Sports
Gambling Commission OKs pacts with tribes for sports betting
Agreements with 15 tribes await approval by the governor and the feds.
News
Inslee sets June 30 target for Washington to fully reopen
Meanwhile, fully vaccinated people can stop wearing masks in most places, the federal CDC said.
News
Open-carry of weapons now illegal at state Capitol, rallies
A new law bars people from carrying guns within 250 feet of a permitted demonstration.
News
New laws will tax the rich, offer aid to low-income workers
Inslee signs bill creating capital gains tax; foes are challenging it in court as unconstitutional.