Op-Ed: We Need a Bolder Bob Ferguson as Governor
We need a Bob Ferguson like we had in 2017 who stands up to and confronts Trump, John Burbank opines. We need a Bob Ferguson who fights for all of us to thrive, setting an example of what is possible as the federal government descends into a kleptocracy.
Op-Ed: Why Housing Supply Advocates Should Support Rent Stabilization
The Washington State Legislature should pass HB 1217 to stabilize rents statewide. This is an important moment for housing supply advocates to show up in support of more stability for tenants.
Op-Ed: Fund Washington Higher Education, Close Amazon/Microsoft Tax Loophole
Rep. Julia Reed's House Bill 1839 would bring in over $200 million a year for higher education in by closing a tax loophole benefiting Amazon and Microsoft. The money is sorely needed to curb tuition and raise enrollment.
State Bill Would Circumvent SPOG, Clear Path for Seattle Civilian Responder Expansion
Seattle is seeking a fix at the state legislature to grow its civilian crisis response program following resistance from the Seattle Police Officers Guild that has blocked expansion. To stay alive, Rep. Shaun Scott’s HB 1816 will need to pass out of committee before a February 21 deadline.
Op-Ed: Wealth Tax on Megarich Would Invest in Washington State’s Future
Despite Governor Ferguson’s hemming and hawing, state lawmakers are advancing a wealth tax that could raise $3 billion annually to fully fund public schools and avert a budget crisis. Passing it would ensure Washington State Democrats are living their values amidst Trump’s assault on public services.
State Lawmakers Chart Path to Double Amtrak Cascades Service
State lawmakers are signaling intent to improve Amtrak Cascades service with legislation setting a goal of cutting the trip time from Seattle to Portland to 2.5 hours and boosting service to 14 daily trips with 88% on-time performance by 2035. If lawmakers pass the bill, the goal for trip time service north to Vancouver would be 2.75 hours.
Facing Budget Crisis, Washington’s Leaders Downplay Focus on Highway Expansion
As other states start to reassess their prioritization of expanding highway capacity in the face of ambitious climate goals and other transportation needs, Washington is still in denial mode.
Ferguson Pushes Budget Cuts as Washington Legislature Seeks New Revenue
With the baton passing from Jay Inslee to Bob Ferguson, Washington’s governor has placed more emphasis on fiscal austerity to solve the state's looming budget deficit. But some lawmakers are intent on raising new revenue to avoid deep cuts to social programs.