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New normal is time to recalibrate rainy day fund
Sucker punched and mugged by a tiny little virus. In every reasonable sense of what it means to be actively aware, we did not see COVID-19 coming. Even when our human leaders did become aware, at all levels – federal, state, and local – the machine of government lumbered slowly in implementing actions that in […]
Energy & Environment
Emergency labor rule avoids “potential food shortage”
The state Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) and the Department of Health have approved an emergency rule for H-2A worker housing that provides...
Guest worker rule could dampen strong apple harvest
As the state Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) considers a proposed emergency rule for guest worker housing, Washington apple farmers say an exceptional,...
Education
B&O tax hike for higher education?
The House Appropriations Committee has voted in favor of a bill imposing a business and occupation (B&O) surcharge on various businesses with the money...
Legislature revises graduation requirements
The Washington legislature has overwhelmingly approved a bill that eliminates certain high school graduation requirements regarding state assessments. Supporters say it will encourage stronger...
Growth
Bipartisan pressure mounts to reopen economy
After more than a month of business closures throughout the state related to the COVID-19 pandemic, bipartisan pressure is building on Governor Jay Inslee...
Landlords offer “creative solutions,” support to struggling tenants
With an eviction moratorium in place since March 18 and the continued closure of businesses throughout Washington state, landlords are offering a variety of...
Healthcare
Work group divided over universal healthcare
The state Universal Health Care Work Group has released its initial report to the legislature on the idea of a single-payer or “universal” state...
Premera announces rural healthcare access grants
Healthcare insurance provider Premera has announced an investment of $10.5 million in grants over four years to Washington State University’s (WSU) community-based medical school...
Single-payer system would require $28 billion in new taxes
This year the state legislature passed SB 5526 which created a standardized health plan through the public health care exchange. Business and industry groups opposed...
Business
Retailers work to shift sales, marketing tactics
As retailers prepare for expanded operations after an initial reopening on May 8, many have already shifted their marketing and business strategies in response...
Emergency labor rule avoids “potential food shortage”
The state Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) and the Department of Health have approved an emergency rule for H-2A worker housing that provides...
Businesses, legislators advocate flexibility, autonomy with reopening policies
Governor Jay Inslee has unveiled additional details about how businesses such as restaurants can partially reopen, along with information about the latest state efforts...