Politics WA transgender youth bill targeted in national culture war Senate Bill 5599 expands an existing law to cover minors seeking protected healthcare services, including gender-affirming treatment. by Taija PerryCook & Joseph O'Sullivan / May 1, 2023
Politics Washington state may boost 988 hotline funding as demand grows An expanded budget for the new suicide and mental health crisis line would support rapid-response teams and marketing efforts. by Taija PerryCook / March 13, 2023 / Updated at 9:15 a.m. on March 14
Politics This WA bill could make it easier and safer to change your name A proposal that passed the Senate this week would boost privacy for people who are trans or queer, those escaping domestic violence, and refugees. by Taija PerryCook / March 3, 2023
News What WA leaders are watching for in the Manuel Ellis police trial Members of law enforcement, community organizers and more weigh in on the trial of three Tacoma officers charged in the 2020 death of Ellis. by Jerry Cornfield & Laurel Demkovich & Grace Deng & Bill Lucia Washington State Standard / October 4, 2023
Politics Housing, homelessness loom large in the minds of Washington voters Tacoma, Spokane and Bellingham each have ballot measures on these issues, and both voters and candidates have cited them as top priorities. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / October 31, 2023
News ‘A partial solution’: A closer look at the new WA Cares Fund The long-term care tax program has already stoked controversy, with critics saying the $36,500 benefit is too small to be meaningful. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / November 23, 2023
Politics WA may soon expand dual-credit programs for high schoolers A package of legislative proposals would scale up enrollment efforts and subsidize fees for some students. by Taija PerryCook / February 21, 2023
Politics A WA bill would lower the legal driving limit to .05% BAC If the legislation passes, Washington would be just the second state in the U.S. to amend its blood alcohol content limit. by Taija PerryCook / February 9, 2023
Politics The high school students behind the bill to end WA's 'pink tax' Razors, deodorant and shampoo cost more when marketed toward women. Now, six Kirkland students are turning to Olympia to help end gendered pricing. by Taija PerryCook / January 24, 2023 / Updated at 2 p.m. on Jan. 25.
Environment Washington cities, counties now required to plan for climate change Starting in 2025, local governments will need to consider emissions and natural disasters in their long-term planning. Some already do. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / August 8, 2023