Northwest
State Legislature passes last-minute budget deal and property tax cut
The plan includes $1 billion for public education and $400 million in tax cuts for property owners.
Northwest
Home healthcare worker bill approved by state Legislature
In protest, House Republicans refused to vote on the controversial bill.
Northwest
Behind the scenes of the governor’s veto of the public records bill
How negotiations between Jay Inslee’s office, lawmakers, and media organizations led to the end of the controversial legislation.
Northwest
Governor’s carbon tax proposal is dead in the state Legislature
The bill’s failure sets the stage for a possible initiative on the November ballot.
Northwest
Lawmakers go into damage control over public records bill
Legislators try to frame the bill as a win for open government, while opponents hope for veto by…
Northwest
Carbon tax proposal inches through Legislature
Governor’s pitch to tax carbon makes it to the Senate floor, but time is running out.
Northwest
Legislators rewrite statute to exempt their records from public disclosure
Critics slam the move as a blow to government transparency.
Northwest
A fight over the role of unions erupts in Olympia
State Democrats push labor union-friendly bills while Republicans cry foul play.
Northwest
John Kerry in Olympia to advocate for governor’s carbon tax
Former U.S. Secretary of State said “Washington has an opportunity to lead.”
Northwest
Bill to tax oil in pipelines advances in state Senate
The measure would also update state oil spill contingency plans.
Northwest
Carbon tax plan advances in the state Senate
Bill moves out of committee with lower tax rate than governor proposed, a “monumental step.”
Northwest
Republican lawmakers call for further action on car tabs
Senate Democrat slams their efforts as “unthoughtful sledgehammers.”
Northwest
Washington health insurance market in flux
Premiums have skyrocketed, prompting a response from lawmakers.