Investigations Sound Transit settles whistleblower case over safety complaints The former employee alleged that supervisors retaliated against him for raising concerns about repair records and other safeguards. by Lizz Giordano / July 24, 2023 / Updated at 10 a.m. on Sept. 15, 2023
Investigations A WA bill would extend unemployment pay to workers on strike Advocates say fear of financial hardship undermines bargaining leverage. Opponents say the bill will increase business costs or prolong work stoppages. by Lizz Giordano / February 8, 2024
Investigations Legislators are shaping their staff’s collective bargaining rights But workers it would affect can’t weigh in. Ethics rules prevent them from lobbying on bills — even ones that would define their ability to unionize. by Lizz Giordano / January 24, 2024
Investigations With 3 recent wins, Starbucks union gains traction in Eastern WA Reduced hours and dwindling benefits spur baristas to action as a small Prosser cafe becomes the 27th in the state to vote to unionize. by Lizz Giordano / September 21, 2023
Investigations 'Community navigators' bridge the healthcare gap for BIPOC groups In King County, public health ambassadors with cultural connections help break down patient/provider barriers. by Lizz Giordano / February 9, 2023
Investigations WA has 530 bridges in 'poor' condition — and limited repair money Even with $605 million in federal aid, the state can't catch up with its growing maintenance backlog. by Lizz Giordano / January 18, 2023
Equity Disability rights vs. snowy sidewalks: Seattle's annual conversation Sidewalk accessibility is a year-round problem for people with mobility issues — but snow and ice pose their own slew of difficulties. by Lizz Giordano / December 23, 2022
Equity Lummi Nation prioritizes tradition in new food assistance program Members of the nation in northwest WA now have more control over how culturally important foods — like locally caught salmon — are distributed. by Lizz Giordano InvestigateWest / December 14, 2022
Politics No increased WA gas tax in 'unprecedented' $16.8B transportation budget As vehicles change and with more available money, lawmakers look for other ways to fund transportation improvements. by Lizz Giordano / March 3, 2022
News WA transit agencies say federal relief funds were distributed unfairly The federal government sent $2 billion to help keep regional transit alive. But the debate over how to spend that money is contentious. by Lizz Giordano / February 15, 2022