WA’s new rent cap set just below 10% for 2026
Washington’s statewide cap on annual residential rent increases will be just shy of 10% next year, down slightly from its current level. The limit, which takes effect Jan. 1, will be set at 9.683%, the state’s Department of Commerce said Friday. House Bill 1217, signed into law in May by Gov. Bob Ferguson, restricts annual residential rent increases to 7% plus inflation, or 10%, whichever is lower. Continue reading at The Washington State Standard. (Jason Finn)
Washington sets record for concealed pistol licenses
More Washingtonians than ever have a license to carry a concealed weapon, state data shows. Why it matters: The rise comes as state legislators have moved to tighten rules surrounding gun purchases. A new state law, which goes into effect in 2027, will require Washington residents to receive live-fire training, be fingerprinted and get a permit before buying guns, a change expected to affect thousands of potential buyers each year. Continue reading at Axios. (Aïda Amer)
Washington law requiring clergy to report child abuse put on hold by federal judge
A federal judge has blocked a new mandate for members of clergy to report suspected child abuse or neglect from taking effect next week. The law, adopted during the 2025 legislative session, has sparked a federal lawsuit, an investigation by the Department of Justice over claims of anti-Catholic bias and vows by Catholic leadership in Seattle and Spokane that their congregations would not fully abide by the requirement. The law was set to take effect on July 27. Continue reading at The Spokesman-Review. (Dan Pelle)
Aberdeen Daily World
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Axios
Washington sets record for concealed pistol licenses
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Bellingham Herald
Washington State Patrol issues MIPA alert for missing Bellingham teen
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Capital Press
WSU veterinary hospital closes to large ag animal emergencies, after hours
Everett Herald
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Peninsula Daily News
Complex for seniors sued by AG
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South Whidbey Record
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Spokesman Review
ICE releases Washington green-card holder after nearly 2 months
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Washington law requiring clergy to report child abuse put on hold by federal judge
Tri-City Herald
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Washington Post
ICE chief stands by mask use in immigration raids, despite criticism
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Trump officials accused of defying 1 in 3 judges who ruled against the president
WA State Standard
WA’s new rent cap set just below 10% for 2026
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Some frozen federal funds for schools released to states by Trump administration
Broadcast
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KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
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KXLY (ABC)
Wildfire smoke could cause health issues for sensitive groups in Spokane
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Web
Cascade PBS
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Big hospital chain goes back to court
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TRAFFIC, WEATHER, ROAD WORK, TRANSIT: Monday info