More logging is proposed to help curb wildfires in the US Pacific Northwest
U.S. officials would allow increased logging on federal lands across the Pacific Northwest in the name of fighting wildfires and boosting rural economies under proposed changes to a sweeping forest management plan that’s been in place for three decades. The U.S. Forest Service proposal, released Nov. 15, would overhaul the Northwest Forest Plan that governs about 38,000 square miles in Oregon, Washington and California. Continue reading at Indian Country Today. (Rick Bowmer)
Gov. Inslee imposes WA spending freeze amid budget shortfall
Gov. Jay Inslee has declared a spending freeze for Washington state government agencies in response to “a significant operating deficit.” The freeze affects nonessential hiring, service contracts, purchasing of goods and equipment and travel. Spending on critical services, as well as hiring to fill vacancies in critical areas, is exempt from the freeze. Inslee urged other state officials to impose similar restrictions within their agencies and jurisdictions. The Monday directive will remain in place indefinitely. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Ellen M. Banner)
First bills drop ahead of WA’s 2025 legislative session
Washington lawmakers have begun teeing up legislation ahead of the 2025 session. Monday marked the first day they could pre-file bills. Legislators will have 105 days to push their ideas through the process after the session kicks off on Jan. 13. There’s no guarantee a pre-filed bill will receive a hearing, the first step on the journey to getting signed into law. Committee chairs make those critical decisions about which bills get an airing and which do not. By pre-filing, lawmakers hope to get their ideas on the radar of those setting agendas for committee meetings. Continue reading at The Washington State Standard. (Jerry Cornfield)
Axios
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