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Legislative Policy

Recent news

Washington House Passes Bill Requiring AG Approval for Local Election Map Changes

The bill would expand the state's Voting Rights Act to require preclearance from the Attorney General before local governments can redraw boundaries.

Trump Administration Rescinds Climate Regulations, Shifting Burden to States

Washington state vows legal action to challenge federal rollback of vehicle emission standards and climate policies.

Lawmakers Struggle to Pass Bills in Short Legislative Session

Many bills addressing issues like salmon restoration, tire piles, and child welfare fail to advance in Washington state legislature

House Passes Bill to Strengthen Medicaid Support for Emergency Ambulance Services

Legislation from Rep. David Stuebe receives unanimous support to update reimbursement rates and maintain federal compliance.

Washington State House Approves Coal Tax Targeting Centralia Power Plant

The new tax aims to thwart a federal move to keep the last coal-fired power plant in the Pacific Northwest operational.

Washington House Unanimously Passes Stalking Supervision Bill

Legislation aims to strengthen supervision requirements for individuals convicted of stalking offenses.

Attorneys Urge Lawmakers to Reject Mandatory Arbitration Bill, Advance Survivor-Focused Alternative

Schroeter Goldmark & Bender attorneys propose a Historical Abuse Pre-Filing Claims Commission to provide a fair, efficient, and trauma-informed process for survivors

Washington Senate Passes Bill to Allow State Board to Remove Elected Sheriffs

The controversial legislation would give a state commission the power to oust county sheriffs, sparking debate over local control and accountability.

Bill to Increase Penalty for Impersonating Police Officer Passes WA House

Debate continues over whether federal immigration officers should be included in the legislation.

Washington Bill Aims to Reduce Penalties for Failure to Register as Sex Offender

Legislation would downgrade repeat offenses from felony to misdemeanor, raising concerns about public safety

Proposed 'Millionaire's Tax' Sparks Debate in Olympia

Washington residents have repeatedly voted against a state income tax.

Washington Lawmakers Aim to Regulate Data Centers

New bill seeks to protect grid, offset potential utility rate hikes

Supporters Rally at WA Capitol for 'Millionaire Tax'

Advocates push for proposed tax on those earning over $1 million annually, as Republicans warn of potential economic fallout.

Washington State Advances Controversial Income Tax on Higher Earners

Legislation would impose 9.9% levy on personal income over $1 million, with some funds earmarked for public defense services.

Washington Bill Aims to Limit Tort Claims Against State, Local Governments

Proposed legislation would require arbitration before jury trials for child victims, raising concerns over accountability and access to justice.

Washington Lawmakers' Tax Proposal Sparks Backlash from Seattle Startup Leaders

Tech leaders warn new taxes could trigger 'death spiral' for Washington's startup ecosystem