Benefits for striking workers, time off for immigration hearings now law in WA
(The Center Square) – This month, a number of new state laws took effect in Washington that impact both employers and their employees. Other recently passed laws impacting employment kick in Jan. 1, 2026. The Association of
Poll: Gov. Ferguson’s first approval rating lowest in more than 30 years
(The Center Square) – A new poll from Cascade PBS/Elway shows Washington voters are not pleased with the job Gov. Bob Ferguson, a Democrat, is doing six months into the job. The poll of 403 registered voters
Pierce County Sheriff’s Office short 47 deputies as council eyes sales tax fix
(The Center Square) – The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office’s ongoing staffing shortage has some county leaders considering a sales tax to provide more revenue for the department. As of July 18, the department has 25 vacant positions
Spokane council revives plan to ban warrantless searches by immigration authorities
(The Center Square) – Despite failing last month, the Spokane City Council reintroduced a plan on Monday to ban warrantless searches by federal immigration authorities on “nonpublic” city property. Former Councilmember Lili Navarrete proposed the idea in
WATCH: State Building Code Council debates amendment to fire code to widen entrances
(The Center Square) – The past president of the Washington State Association of Fire Marshals is asking the Washington State Building Code Council to adopt an emergency amendment to the fire code to widen required access to
Former Seattle City Councilmember Debora Juarez appointed back to D5 seat
(The Center Square) – Former Seattle City Councilmember Debora Juarez is back as the city’s District 5 representative for a 16-month term. On Monday, seven out of the eight members of the Seattle City Council voted to
WSDOT seeks sanctions against whistleblower regarding CCA impact to gas prices
(The Center Square) – The Washington State Department of Transportation, represented by Attorney General Nick Brown’s former law firm, is seeking sanctions against a former employee whistleblower who alleged he was forced to retire due to forecasts
Report: Most crime rates down in Washington state in 2024
(The Center Square) – Most crime rates declined in Washington state in 2024, according to the annual “Crime in Washington” report compiled by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs. The good news: The rates of