Matt Markovich
2 adult entertainment bills could influence change in lewd laws governing state bars
The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board's suspension of the lewd laws related to bars may help move forward two adult entertainment bills in Olympia.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
Police accused of deadly force face independent prosecutions in revised bill
HB 1579 is part of broader reforms aiming for more accountability in policing, alongside other proposed bills.3 years ago
Frank Sumrall
Gun store in Federal Way faces $3M fine for selling high-capacity mags
In March 2022, the Washington Legislature passed a law -- requested by Ferguson -- banning the sale of ammunition magazines that hold more than 10 rounds.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
Bill altering traffic safety camera use includes 75% discount for some violators
A substitute amendment approved by a House committee added some controversial elements, including reduced penalties for low-income violators.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
State Senate approves health coverage assistance during labor disputes
The bill’s sponsor Senator Karen Kieser, D-Des Moines, said it will provide a safety net to people who have no access to any other health insurance.3 years ago
Kate Stone
Out of time: Push for permanent standard time in WA fails to clear legislature
On permanent standard time, Washington would still have 4 p.m. sunsets in the winter, but would lose the 10 p.m. sunsets in the summer.3 years ago
Kate Stone
Graffiti crimes can once again be prosecuted in Seattle, court rules
City Attorney Ann Davison announced the ordinance is once again in effect. If you tag something, prepare to be charged with a gross misdemeanor.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
Could a 10-cent bottle deposit system be in the state’s future?
In a bid to encourage recycling and promote environmental sustainability, state lawmakers are considering the bottle deposit system.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
Pilot program to provide free rent to low-income residents could cost the state $251 million
The Evergreen Basic Income Pilot Program aims to provide recurring cash payments for two years to 7,500 low-income state residents.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
Coupon discrimination by large grocery stores targeted in Senate bill
Senate Bill 6265 would require larger grocery stores to honor posted electronic coupons even if consumers have not subscribed to the store’s app or website.3 years ago
Frank Sumrall
Cell phones would be banned in Wash. schools under new bill
Some Washington public schools and districts have already executed a phone ban, including the Peninsula School District.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
Should you be required to have liability insurance if you own a gun?
A Washington Senate bill requiring liability insurance for gun owners is providing a new twist on the argument that citizens have right to bear arms.3 years ago
Frank Sumrall
Bill toughening animal abuse punishments passes Washington House
Animal cruelty in the first degree is a Class C felony in Washington, punishable by up to five years in prison an fine as high as $10,000.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
Penalties for in-person harassment of election workers debated
The State Senate is debating a bill that would make the penalties for harassing an election worker in person the same as if it were done online.3 years ago
Frank Sumrall
Lawmakers arguing whether clergy have a ‘duty’ to report child abuse
A previous version of this bill requiring clergy to report child abuse was introduced last year, but it stalled in the state Senate.3 years ago
Kate Stone
Limits on natural gas may get stripped out of new state bill
While the bill takes out some of the more stringent bans, it adds a few new regulations that could impact consumers .3 years ago
Matt Markovich
State lawmakers try again to lower legal blood alcohol limit for DUIs
State lawmakers will make another attempt to lower the state's legal blood alcohol limit to 0.05 from the current 0.08. Only Utah has made a similar move.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
‘I quit breathing’: Bill raises penalties for attacks on referees, school staff
The bil would elevate the penalty for anyone who interferes "by force or violence" to a class C felony.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
Boeing sued for negligence over 2022 murder of employee
Rachel Washington, the executor of Isaiah Washington's estate, initiated the legal action in Washington's King County Superior Court in December.3 years ago
Steve Coogan
Initiative allowing ability to opt out of WA Cares program certified, ballot next?
An initiative that would allow people to opt out of the new tax for the state-run long-term-care program could be headed to the November ballot.3 years ago
Kate Stone
Washington child safety laws questioned after Port Townsend baby’s death
The law states poverty or substance abuse themselves do not constitute "imminent physical harm" to a child that would allow social services to take custody.3 years ago
Matt Markovich
Senate bill aims to prohibit use of hostile architecture preventing homeless camps
If architecture is erected specifically "to prevent people from sitting or lying at street" level, it would be prohibited.3 years ago
Steve Coogan
Initiative that would outlaw state income taxes certified, ballot may be next
An initiative to outlaw income taxes at the state, county and city level could be headed to the ballot on November after it was certified Wednesday.3 years ago
