Click here for our Daily E-Clips policy.

Monday, March 7

Death toll surpasses 6 million for the pandemic now in its 3rd year
The official global death toll from COVID-19 eclipsed 6 million on Monday — underscoring that the pandemic, now entering its third year, is far from over. The milestone, recorded by Johns Hopkins University, is the latest tragic reminder of the unrelenting nature of the pandemic even as people are shedding masks, travel is resuming and businesses are reopening around the globe. Continue reading at The Associated Press. (AP)

State legislature approves ban on sale of high-capacity magazines
A ban on the sale of high-capacity magazines was passed by the Washington state Legislature Friday. Senate Bill 5078 prohibits the sale, attempted sale, manufacture and distribution of magazines with the capacity to accept more than 10 rounds of ammunition. The bill does not prohibit the possession of high-capacity magazines. “For too long we have accepted gun violence as an inevitable part of life,” said Senator Marko Liias, who sponsored the bill. Continue reading at KIRO 7. (KIRO 7 News)

These clarifications to police accountability legislation will go into effect immediately
In an effort to clarify police accountability laws passed by the legislature in 2021, two new measures were signed into law Friday and will go into effect immediately. Gov. Jay Inslee held a virtual meeting to sign those bills, along with other bills, at the state capitol. Legislators last year introduced major reforms in order to set a baseline of standards for police use of force and behavior, as well as requiring more transparency from law enforcement. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Gene Johnson)

Print

Associated Press
Inslee signs bills clarifying police reform laws in Washington
Death toll surpasses 6 million for the pandemic now in its 3rd year
On ‘Bloody Sunday,’ Harris reflects on the current fight for voting rights
Pickleball to soon be the official state sport of Washington
Public transit gets $3.7B to boost old vehicles, introduce new fleet of electric buses

Aberdeen Daily World
Hoquiam business owners fight for revitalization
Elma School District shows off new electric school bus

Bellingham Herald
Whatcom is avoiding the West’s drought. That’s good, except for this one key thing
Injured Whatcom sheriff’s deputies share pain, frustration and appreciation after shooting
Whatcom County executive joins some statewide leaders in criticizing PSE’s clean energy plans

Capital Press
Could inbreeding slow down Asian giant hornets?
Drought persists in most of Pacific Northwest
Lawmakers give Inslee more power over energy projects (Carlyle)

Columbian
Second anniversary of COVID-19 in Clark County a time of optimism for some, pain for others
Sen. Cleveland: Local View: I-5 Bridge project collaborative, vital to region
Opinion: In Our View: Purdue Pharma settlement sends a message
Opinion: Cheers & Jeers: Ramping up reading; lousy litter (Stonier)

The Daily News
Capitol Dispatch: Inslee signs off on two police use-of-force bills

Everett Herald
Lawmakers OK limit on sale of high-capacity ammo magazines (Liias, Peterson, Ortiz-Self)
Inslee signs laws that fine-tune last year’s policing reform
Gender-identity clubs face resistance in some local schools
Everett eyeing $1.35M to expand bike paths east of Broadway
By 2044, Snohomish County population projected at 1.1 million
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Rep. Kloba: Close risky loophole on synthetic cannabis products
Rep. Paul: Training, certifying 911 staff helps them help us (Paul, Donaghy, Rule, Taylor, Johnson, Frame, Ryu)
WaPo Comment: Some better news on slowing climate change
Comment: What future have we gotten our kids into?
Editorial: Chance to slow, adapt to climate change dwindling

The Facts Newspaper
Visit to tiny home village shows promising pathway to permanent housing

High Country News
Pacific Coast crabs are suffocating

Kitsap Sun
Bomb threat disrupts Bainbridge, Bremerton state ferry service, prompts terminal evacuation

News Tribune
Tacoma, Pierce County brace for potential Russian cyber attacks after U.S. sanctions
Man fatally shot by Tacoma police is identified by medical examiner
This Pierce County city plans a $9 million park upgrade. Locals want a spray park

New York Times
Ukraine Live Updates: Civilians Caught in Escalating Russian Attacks
Energy prices jump amid fears of a cutoff of Russian supplies.
Car Industry Woes Show How Global Conflicts Will Reshape Trade
Ukrainians Find That Relatives in Russia Don’t Believe It’s a War
Led by Truckers, Hundreds of Vehicles Protesting Covid Mandates Encircle Washington
Employer Practices Limit Workers’ Choices and Wages, U.S. Study Argues

Olympian
WA House votes to ban ‘high-capacity’ magazines, bill now heads to the governor (Liias, Harris-Talley, Hackney, Kirby)
These clarifications to police accountability legislation will go into effect immediately (Bronoske, Johnson)
Anti-mandates rally on WA state Capitol Campus falls short of attendance expectations
Tacoma police officer placed on leave after posting ‘Let’s go Brandon’ video while on duty
Gathering for Ukraine attracts about 150 to WA state Capitol Campus
Black Student Union to file class-action lawsuit against North Thurston Public Schools
Public transit gets $3.7B to woo riders, adopt green fleets

Peninsula Daily News
Nurse ratio bill halted in state Senate (Tharinger, Chapman, Van De Wege)
COVID-19 case rates are continuing to drop
FEMA deadline on Monday
Gas prices reach $4 per gallon on Peninsula
School seismic safety grant plan approved (Tharinger, Chapman)

Puget Sound Business Journal
Series of bills in Olympia show how tech workers’ political clout is growing (Kuderer)
Concrete flows at some job sites as bitter strike drags on
Washington lawmakers near passage of bill requiring employers to disclose pay to job applicants (Randall)
Tacoma Housing Authority to break ground this fall on $78M Hilltop development
Why workplace culture will be even more important in the hybrid era

Seattle Medium
Seattle School Board Votes To Offer Dr. Brent Jones Permanent Position As Superintendent

Seattle Times
What you need to know about mask, vaccine rules at Seattle-area arts and music events
A new kind of union is forming at Amazon Fresh stores in Seattle
Harrell says he ‘inherited a mess,’ will solve crime issues by putting arrests first, social services second
WA Legislature stalls on efforts to preserve salmon habitat (Lekanoff)
New traffic camera enforcement begins in Seattle. Your fine comes later
WA Legislature enters final stretch with budget, policing and transportation proposals in play (Jinkins, Bateman, Lovick)
‘Nothing should have happened to any of us.’ A sexual assault case at Washington State University highlights gaps in how colleges respond to misconduct
Letter: Move Ahead Washington: Historic opportunity for cyclists, climate action
Opinion: With Washington’s nuclear targets, Putin’s war feels closer to home

Skagit Valley Herald
Ask the Undersheriff: Neighborhood Watch a good tool for combating crime
Area tribes in midst of legal dispute over fishing rights on the Skagit River
Once plentiful in Skagit County, the number of dairy farms continues to shrink

Sol De Yakima
Nuestra Casa, La Casa Hogar celebrarán el Día Internacional de la Mujer
Yakima Valley College ayudará a personas que salen de la cárcel a obtener educación
Senado estatal aprueba primer sistema de alerta en EE.UU. para indígenas desaparecidos, asesinados (Lekanoff)

South Seattle Emerald
Harrell Touts “Hot Spot” Arrests in “Operation New Day” Announcement
Rainier Valley Food Bank Reopens in a Bigger Building on Rainier Avenue South
Seattle Opera Plans To Address Racial Inequity On And Off Stage With ‘resi’ Proposal

Spokesman Review
Getting There: Now out of the North Spokane Corridor’s path, SCC’s clock tower is set for renovations
UI professor says Ketanji Brown Jackson’s nomination is a ‘profound achievement for African American women in the legal profession’
Looking for a way to support Ukraine? Here are a few options

Tri-City Herald
Richland School Board in ‘disarray,’ says state leadership expert brought in for coaching
Number of new COVID deaths in Tri-Cities still high, as case rates, hospitalizations drop
Tri-Cities street racing a growing problem even before deadly Richland crash
A different kind of ‘gun’ caused the Hanford nuclear site’s active shooter lockdown
‘It’s terrorism, it’s genocide.’ Tri-City Ukrainians who escaped persecution now fear the worst
Tri-Citian who lost millions in Pasco biofuel scam wants to turn site into brewery

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Buyer frustration could slow real estate demand in Walla Walla Valley, brokers worry
Courts in Walla Walla and Columbia counties still behind two years into pandemic

Washington Post
Amid the death and rubble, Ukrainian teams hunt for evidence of possible war crimes
Putin’s extreme isolation leaves few world leaders to convince him of a peace deal
Russian forces attack airfields in Ukraine as Zelensky pleads for fighter jets
Biden administration moves to cut smog-forming pollution from heavy trucks
This is why it’s so hard to find mental health counseling right now
White House must go further on new pandemic response, say former Biden advisers, outside experts
Putin’s full-scale information war got a key assist from Donald Trump and right-wing media

Broadcast

KING 5 TV (NBC)
These major companies are cutting ties with Russia
Former Russian news anchor living in Seattle discusses ongoing censorship
Seattle police shoot, kill man with long gun outside Federal Office Building downtown

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
Price for gas hits highest-recorded average in Washington, AAA reports
Supreme Court won’t review decision that freed Bill Cosby
Russia attacks Ukraine: Ukrainian official rejects corridors to Belarus, Russia
Officers open fire, kill armed man in downtown Seattle
Everett man killed after shots fired in fight between at least 10 people
Bainbridge Island ferry terminal resumes operations after bomb threat
State legislature approves ban on sale of high-capacity magazines (Liias)
Seattle leaders emphasize arrests, prosecution in plan to clean up downtown
Hundreds march in Seattle to support of Ukraine
Tacoma Police Department taking action against officer over social media post
Historic decision: Employer faces jail time for worker’s death in trench collapse
Climate experts: Much of Northwest remains drought-stricken

KOMO 4 TV (ABC)
Seattle average gas prices jump nearly 44 cents in one week, up to $4.60
Inslee orders state agencies to review ties, contracts with Russia that can be canceled

KUOW Public Radio
Thousands have been detained in anti-war protests across Russia
The end-emic phase is near? Washington’s mask mandate ends soon
Week in Review: Ukraine, Wheat, and Masks
Marking the 80th anniversary of Executive Order 9066

KXLY (ABC)
‘Housing, not fences’: Protesters urge Spokane mayor to take down Browne St viaduct fences

NW Public Radio
Why Does Russia Want Ukraine’s Nuclear Power Plants? WSU Expert Weighs In
Gov. Inslee Signs Police Reform “Fix” Measures
Sam’s Law Passes In WA Legislature

Q13 TV (FOX)
Washington a step closer to creating nation’s first alert system for missing Indigenous people (Lekanoff)

Web

Crosscut
Lawsuits over venue relief grants help some applicants secure millions
WA auditors sift through waves of federal dollars to detect fraud
Help us with our yearlong investigation into recovery spending
Will WA ban high-capacity gun magazines in 2022? (Liias)

MyNorthwest
Whatcom County deputies shot in February suing alleged shooter
Gov. Inslee to have ‘further discussions’ about vaccine mandate for state employees
Monthly $35 insulin cap for Washingtonians among bills signed into law Friday
Officers open fire, kill armed man in downtown Seattle
State lawmakers approve expansion of Dolly Parton’s ‘Imagination Library’ program
After years of stalled efforts, state lawmakers approve ban on high-capacity magazines
Inslee OKs bills clarifying police reform laws in Washington
Unclear when efforts to remove homeless camp outside Seattle City Hall will resume
Neighbors concerned about mega-warehouse proposed in South Tacoma
Seattle mayor unveils plan to ramp up police presence downtown amid surge in violence
Sea-Tac Airport doubles international arrival capacity with new terminal
State insurance commissioner issues apology following reports of abusive behavior toward staff
Staffing shortages delay expanded ferry schedules to April
Washington gas prices climb amid uncertainty with Russia

The Stranger
Joe Biden’s Job Boom Is Real and Will Change the Political Landscape
The People of 3rd and Pine

West Seattle Blog
WEST SEATTLE LIGHT RAIL: Haven’t commented on routing/station locations yet? ‘Deep dive’ on Tuesday
CORONAVIRUS: How one West Seattle business has decided to handle masks after mandate ends
WEST SEATTLE SCENE: $5 gasoline
UPDATE: West Seattle Water Taxi service interrupted by state-ferry threat investigation
WEST SEATTLE WEEKEND SCENE: Rallying for Black lives outside Louisa Boren K-8 STEM

Friday, March 4

WA Senate passes first U.S. alert system for missing and murdered Indigenous people
A new bill to create the country’s first-ever alert system to help identify and locate missing Indigenous women and people passed the Washington state Senate Thursday, March. 3. The bill had previously passed the house unanimously on Jan. 28 and must go back for concurrence. Similar to “silver alerts” for missing vulnerable adults, the system created by House Bill 1725 would broadcast information about missing Indigenous people on message signs and highway advisory radio messages as well as through press releases to local and regional media. Continue reading at The Olympian.

Anti-hazing bill ‘Sam’s Law’ inches closer to passing WA Legislature focusing on education, transparency
An anti-hazing bill that was proposed in part in response to the death of a Washington State University student, appears headed toward passing the Washington state Legislature. House Bill 1751, which is now being amended to formally change its name to “Sam’s Law,” received broad bipartisan support in what advocates say will change the culture of college life by increasing transparency and education around hazing. If signed by Gov. Jay Inslee, the law would update the state’s 30-year-old definition of hazing and require higher education institutions to make public all reports from hazing investigations. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Courtesy of Jolayne Houtz and Hector Martinez)

The U.S. added 678,000 jobs in February. It’s another sign of a hot labor market
Hiring accelerated sharply last month as U.S. employers added 678,000 jobs, the largest gain since last July, as a resilient economy continues its recovery from the stubborn coronavirus pandemic. The unemployment rate fell to 3.8% last month, from 4% in January. Job gains for December and January were also revised up by a total of 92,000 jobs. The health outlook has improved significantly since a winter wave of infections tied to the omicron variant. Continue reading at KUOW. (AP)

Print

Associated Press
WA insurance commissioner accused of mistreating staff
“Freedom Convoy” leaves Spokane for Washington, D.C.

Bellevue Reporter
King County buys La Quinta Inn & Suites in Kirkland to become homeless shelter

Bellingham Herald
This Bellingham restaurant is sending care packages to Ukraine. Here’s how to help
This Bellingham waterfront condo hits the market with a record-breaking list price
Rally, ‘teach-in’ planned as Whatcom residents react to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
Nearly 40% of eligible Whatcom residents have not yet received a COVID vaccine booster

Capital Press
First Yakima water-supply forecast looks good

Everett Herald
Bill to set minimum hospital staffing dies in state Senate (Robinson, Riccelli, Sells)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Cassandra Lopez-Shaw, county’s first Latinx judge, dies at 54

International Examiner
Little Saigon 2030 Action Plan seeks community input by March 5

Kirkland Reporter
Community input needed on potential use of body-worn cameras within Kirkland Police Department

News Tribune
To support Ukraine, WA is cutting ties with Russia. Should Tacoma’s sister city be next?
Tacoma officer was justified in shooting homicide suspect who killed K-9, prosecutors say

New York Times
Ukraine Live Updates: Panic Grips Some Cities as Russia Tightens Cordon
Economic Ties Among Nations Spur Peace. Or Do They?
February Jobs Report Shows Another Strong Gain
Decades of Neglect Leave I.R.S. in Tax Season ‘Chaos’
Florida Lawmakers Vote to Ban Abortions After 15 Weeks

Olympian
WA Senate passes first U.S. alert system for missing and murdered Indigenous people (Lekanoff)
2 protests against state’s COVID-19 response planned for WA Capitol Campus on Saturday

Peninsula Daily News
Jefferson County man dies of COVID-19
State residents can order more free COVID-19 tests
House passes bill allowing unionization for staff in 2024 (Riccelli)
Two fixes to police reform laws head to Inslee’s desk

Puget Sound Business Journal
US universities sever Russian ties, shed investments following Ukrainian invasion
Seattle launches $8M small business loan program
First look: Sea-Tac Airport cuts ribbon on International Arrivals Facility (Photos)
Mayor Harrell to revisit decision that killed off affordable micro-apartments
Why employers’ labor challenges won’t be going away — unless they take action.

Seattle Times
Droughts continue in the Pacific Northwest despite early snow and rain
Celebrating a grand new facility at Sea-Tac airport, WA officials pledge to welcome Ukrainian refugees
WA bill would give raises to Uber/Lyft drivers. Some in labor are concerned (Berry)
Brent Jones a step closer to being Seattle superintendent as board votes to negotiate contract with him
New traffic camera enforcement begins in Seattle. Your fine comes later
What health experts say about the ‘natural experiment’ of ditching mask mandates in WA
Anti-hazing bill ‘Sam’s Law’ inches closer to passing WA Legislature focusing on education, transparency (Heck, Leavitt)
Opinion: Prioritize small-business racial and gender equity as part of economic recovery

Skagit Valley Herald
Bill to improve riparian habitat to benefit salmon fails to make it out of committee (Lekanoff, Van De Wege)
Volunteers do their part to clean up Deception Pass State Park campgrounds
Skagit County mental health center hits another snag

South Seattle Emerald
Washington’s First Black-Owned Hospice Agency Waits For State Approval
Pallet, a For-Profit Provider of Utilitarian Shelters, Could be a Contender For County Funding

Tri-City Herald
Franklin sheriff won’t concede after Teamsters win contract dispute to go inside jail
Will there be enough water for Tri-Cities lawns and crops this year? Here’s the outlook
Former Tri-Cities fire chief to be paid $400,000+ in lawsuit over racial discrimination

Washington Post
Russia seizes nuclear plant in Ukraine; radiation levels stable after fire
Zelensky calls for direct talks with Putin; U.S. Embassy says nuclear plant attack is ‘a war crime’
New evidence shows Trump was told many times there was no voter fraud — but he kept saying it anyway
U.S. adds 678,000 jobs in February, with labor market nearing full recovery from pandemic

Yakima Herald-Republic
Sunnyside’s Nuestra Casa expands services for people seeking citizenship
Yakima Basin water supply in good shape for 2022 season, Bureau of Reclamation says
Opinion: Yakama Tribal Council’s resolution on Ukraine sets an example for us all
Comment: Putin is a prisoner of his own delusions about Ukraine. They will be his undoing
Letter: If you stand for decency, stand by Ukraine

Broadcast

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
Sharp surge in violence brings mobile police precinct to downtown Seattle
Activists create human mural to support saving orcas, salmon
Striking concrete workers hold rally in Seattle
City’s focus switching to mobile clinics as some vaccination sites close in Seattle
Growing call for president to ban Russian oil imports
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport unveils new international arrivals facility
WA insurance commissioner accused of mistreating staff

KUOW Public Radio
How the Olympic Marmot Became Washington’s Fuzziest State Symbol (Chopp)
The U.S. added 678,000 jobs in February. It’s another sign of a hot labor market
Civil rights activists are prepared to fight for Jackson’s nomination to the court
Abortions after 15 weeks are one signature away from being banned in Florida
Tens of thousands of Ukrainians can stay in the U.S. without fear of deportation

KXLY (ABC)
As Idaho looks to restrict abortion care, Washington seeks to protect it

Web

Crosscut
Will WA ban high-capacity gun magazines in 2022? (Liias)
Human Elements: Using Indigenous knowledge to identify toxic shellfish

MyNorthwest
Washington gas prices climb amid uncertainty with Russia
Seattle council floats using public library as emergency homeless shelter
King County moving forward with plan to convert Kirkland hotel into homeless shelter
Puget Sound orca gives birth to calf in ‘good physical condition’
Battle lines drawn in fight over historic district designation in Wallingford

Thursday, March 3

WA to get $183M from Purdue Pharma settlement, more than double original proposal
Washington will receive $183 million from Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family as a result of the state’s lawsuit over the widely abused prescription painkiller OxyContin, Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced. The settlement amount is more than double what the state was initially slated to get under a prior bankruptcy plan, announced last year. Under that plan, which Ferguson objected to in August, Washington would have gotten $70 million. Ferguson and nine other state attorneys general argued that the proposed settlement had been far too lenient and allowed the Sackler family, which founded and owns Purdue Pharma, to walk away with a “legal shield for life.” Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Mark Lennihan)

For some WA families, gardening starts with food stamps
Many people know that the U.S. Department of Agriculture Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, known colloquially as food stamps, makes it possible for more people to buy food at the grocery store. Households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level or making about $4,400 per month for a family of four, can use their SNAP benefits to purchase milk, bread, vegetables and various other food products. Immigrants may be eligible for the State Food Assistance Program, which offers the same benefits as SNAP. But fewer people know that these benefits can help them grow their own fresh produce, according to people involved in King County gardening nonprofits and the SNAP program itself. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Hannah Weinberger)

State expands free COVID testing program to allow two orders per month
Washington households can now order a free COVID test kit directly to their homes twice a month, while supplies last. The Washington Department of Health announced Wednesday that the state’s online portal that allows residents to order COVID-19 rapid tests directly to their homes will now allow residents to place two orders a month. Residents can go to sayyescovidhometest.org to order the test kits, which each contain five tests. The website originally launched in January and quickly ran out of tests. Continue reading at KIRO 7.

Print

Associated Press
Trade group settles state’s GMO-labeling case for $9 million
Man pleads not guilty in death of officer killed by deputy
House passes bill allowing unionization for staff in 2024

Auburn Reporter
Ukrainian Honorary Consul speaks out about Russian invasion of Ukraine
Community testifies in support of restorative justice for youth in South King County cities

Bellingham Herald
Average gas prices top $4 in Bellingham. Will it keep going up?
Find out if you’re eligible for discounted internet in Whatcom County
These high sewer rates coming as Bellingham replaces treatment plant incinerators
This is Bellingham’s plan to improve waste water treatment
Southern Resident orcas welcome first newborn calf into J Pod in more than two years
This is what Bellingham’s private security does downtown

Capital Press
Food makers settle with Washington state for $9M over initiative campaign
Balcom new National Potato Council president

Columbian
Opinion: In Our View: Legislature should address homeless crisis

Everett Herald
New calf born to endangered southern resident orcas
Edmonds budget amendment saga ends with $400K in spending cuts
Boeing buys 2 million gallons of aviation biofuel
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Editorial: Our part in helping Ukraine and Ukrainians
Letter: Legislation offers solutions to siting solar panels

The Facts Newspaper
Eighteen South King County Organizations to Receive $687,000 For Environmental Improvements
State Public Works Board accepting broadband construction loan applications through April 26

News Tribune
Is city ramming through a big warehouse project in South Tacoma? Some folks think so
Home builder bringing expanding workforce to Tacoma to establish new headquarters
Op-Ed: Pierce County can’t solve housing, homelessness crises alone. WA lawmakers must invest big

New York Times
Live Updates: 1 Million Have Fled Ukraine; Russia Bombards Key Cities
Jan. 6 Committee Lays Out Potential Criminal Charges Against Trump
War Abroad and Politics at Home Push U.S. Climate Action Aside
As Biden Pivots, Democrats Seek to Salvage His Domestic Agenda
Sacklers and Purdue Pharma Reach New Deal With States Over Opioids
Judge Jackson Begins Making Her Own Case for High Court Seat
This Map Shows Where Biodiversity Is Most at Risk in America
Texas Court Halts Investigation of Parents Over Care for Transgender Youth
The World Is Awash in Plastic. Nations Plan a Treaty to Fix That.

Olympian
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Recalled powdered infant formulas may be linked to illness, WA health department says
Southern Resident orcas welcome first newborn calf into J Pod in more than two years
Providence hospitals sued by WA state over billing of lower income patients

Peninsula Daily News
New COVID-19 cases in single digits
FEMA approves more than $585,000 in funding for Clallam County
Judge overturns state’s new capital gains tax

Puget Sound Business Journal
Biden calls for HBCU support ahead of 2022 budget deadline
Pandemic no longer forefront concern of CRE industry as broader economic, global issues take center stage
Report: U.S. mortgage lending drops 13% annually at close of 2021
New Port commissioner outlines plans to tackle supply chain, climate challenges
Business openings rebound to pre-pandemic levels

Seattle Medium
Powdered Infant Formula Recall Expands Following Reports Of Bacterial Infections

Seattle Times
WA to get $183M from Purdue Pharma settlement, more than double original proposal
Staffing problems clash with COVID concerns as police hiring in Seattle suburb stirs debate
Everyone’s test scores are down. What does that mean for schools in Washington state?
WA Attorney General Bob Ferguson announces $9M settlement in grocery industry campaign-finance case

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit County mental health center hits another snag

South Seattle Emerald
Landmark Seattle Proposal Would Guarantee Gig Workers a Minimum Wage
Birth Doulas Rally for Pathway to Certification in Washington State
CDCHC Workers Unionize, New Chief Librarian at SPL, & More
Muralist Henry Luke Brings Community Stories Into Public Art

Spokesman Review
Bill to allow state to lease land along I-90 to Spokane passes Legislature (Billig, Riccelli)
Washington residents eligible for more free COVID home tests; some testing sites change hours or locations
Washington Senate passes resolution honoring Ukrainian people as ‘shocking’ Russian invasion intensifies
Export fuel tax out of transportation package after concerns from neighboring states (Fey)

Tri-City Herald
Hundreds gather in Richland for anti-war, pro-Ukraine demonstration

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Foundation seeks grant applications from Walla Walla nonprofits

Washington Post
Russia takes Kherson government building in siege of Ukraine’s port cities
White-supremacist propaganda remained high in the United States in 2021, new ADL report says
Jan. 6 committee alleges Trump, allies engaged in potential ‘criminal conspiracy’ by trying to block Congress from certifying election
Biden administration requests $32.5 billion in Ukraine aid and coronavirus funds as spending talks continue
Trump’s border wall has been breached more than 3,000 times by smugglers, CBP records show

Yakima Herald-Republic
Yakima County deputy prosecutor on unpaid leave after sex-crime charges filed
Yakama Nation condemns Russia for invading Ukraine
Bloomberg Comment: Putin has unleashed a new age of nuclear proliferation
Chicago Tribune Opinion: China is faced with a stark choice: Support a free Ukraine or risk global isolation alongside Russia
Letter: Why keep attacking Trump? He’s not in charge

Broadcast

KING 5 TV (NBC)
Downtown Seattle business continues remote work because of crime, not COVID
Bainbridge Ferry walkway to be rebuilt starting this summer

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
Focus shifts to home testing as some COVID-19 vaccination sites close
New baby born in Southern Resident orca J Pod
Mudslide on SR 18 in Federal Way causes traffic woes
Stolen catalytic converter from delivery van threatens nonprofit’s mission to feed homeless kids
State expands free COVID testing program to allow two orders per month
Construction, development of first all-electric jet occurring in Arlington
Final push on new I-5 bridge in Tacoma begins soon. Decades-long HOV project nears end
African-Americans at high risk for glaucoma, others at risk, too
Seattle City Council approves $220K in retroactive SPD hiring bonuses

KOMO 4 TV (ABC)
Washington state lawmakers pause to show solidarity with Ukrainian people (Pedersen)
Tiny house villages in Seattle growing source of frustration for some neighbors
Seattle clears notorious encampment at Mercer Street in South
Can you afford to buy a house in the Seattle area? For many, the answer is no

KNKX Public Radio
‘I speak of him in present tense’: Tacoma marks two years without Manuel Ellis as officers await trial
Washington’s longtime insurance commissioner accused of mistreating staff
Washington House jettisons exported fuel tax proposal that angered neighboring states (Fey)

KUOW Public Radio
Seattle area prepares to welcome Ukrainian refugees
Pandemic updates: Some health care workers urge people to keep masking
A million people have fled Ukraine as Russia nears takeover of port city
Jan. 6 panel says it has evidence Trump broke laws in trying to overturn the election
Their son died in a hazing incident at WSU. Now they’re pushing for a new state law
Who will keep their masks on after the mandates end?: Today So Far
New baby orca for Puget Sound’s J Pod

KXLY (ABC)
Stevens County deputies will soon be equipped with body cameras

NW Public Radio
Washington’s Longtime Insurance Commissioner Accused Of Mistreating Staff

Web

Crosscut
No increased WA gas tax in ‘unprecedented’ $16.8B transportation budget (Saldaña)
For some WA families, gardening starts with food stamps

MyNorthwest
Squaring the circle: Housing Seattle’s homeless as City austerity budget dawns
Lawmakers introduce bill to have state agencies cut all ties with Russian companies
Google to return Seattle employees on hybrid model, will require vaccines for in-person work
Seattle libraries select new chief librarian following remote work controversy
Eastside police departments form Regional Catalytic Converter Task Force
Mayor Harrell to announce decision on Seattle police chief by end of month
Washington health leaders urge continued mask wearing after mandate lifts

The Stranger
Council Feels “Forced” to Let Cops Spend $50,000 in Falsely Promised Hiring Bonuses

West Seattle Blog
Ferry dock at Lincoln Park? Lowman Beach? Current location? Or? Fauntleroy terminal replacement ‘draft alternatives’ unveiled
ORCAS: Happy and sad news for Southern Resident Killer Whales, including a birth
PHOTOS: Our Lady of Guadalupe’s prayer walk for Ukraine peace

Wednesday, March 2

Some health care workers urge people to keep masking
Some health care workers are urging people to keep their masks on in indoor public spaces like grocery stores and offices, even after Washington state lifts the requirement on March 12. Santiago Neme, an infectious disease doctor, said he hopes people keep masking up, and that he himself plans to do so for the foreseeable future. “It’s not my risk; it’s the risk of my community,” he explained. “We have a pretty significant amount of folks who, although they’ve been vaccinated and boosted, they’re still immunocompromised, and their response to the vaccine is not as robust.” Continue reading at KUOW. (Megan Farmer)

Local police departments start Catalytic Converter Task Force to curb sharp rise in thefts
A quick way for crooks to make some fast cash, catalytic converter thefts have skyrocketed over the last few years and now a coalition of law enforcement agencies are teaming up to create a task force aimed at curbing the problem. Police departments in Bellevue, Bothell, Medina, Clyde Hill, Redmond, Issaquah, Mercer Island, Kirkland, and the King County Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday afternoon the Catalytic Converter Task Force at a press conference. So far, they report having made 11 arrests. Continue reading at KOMO News.

WA capital gains tax ruled unconstitutional by trial judge
Washington state Democrats have hit their first major legal roadblock in their efforts to tax the rich. A Douglas County Superior Court judge ruled Tuesday that the state’s new capital-gains tax violates the state constitution. The tax, which applies to large profits from selling stocks and bonds, was approved by the Legislature last year and took effect in January. In his ruling Friday, Judge Brian Huber said the tax is unconstitutional because it doesn’t apply to everyone uniformly. Continue reading at Crosscut.

Print

Associated Press
Washington Congresswoman DelBene tests positive for COVID-19
Alaska Airlines suspends partnership with Russian airline
Judge overturns Washington state’s new capital gains tax

Auburn Reporter
Opinion: Is it the right time to lift indoor mask mandates?

Bellingham Herald
Community concern sparks this new task force at Bellingham Public Schools
Bellingham City Council fine-tunes plans to return to in-person meetings as COVID eases
Whatcom’s daily COVID case average drops by 80% in February, but deaths remain high

Capital Press
Washington judge strikes down capital gains tax
Washington Democrats move to give state energy council more power (Carlyle)
Another buffer bill stalls in Washington Senate (Rolfes, Lekanoff)
Oregon House votes to end ag overtime exemption
Q&A: Washington Gov. Jay Inslee talks about agriculture, dams and COVID

Columbian
Former Washington House Speaker Robert ‘Bob’ Schaefer dies at 91

Everett Herald
AG seeks refund for low-income Providence, Swedish patients
Lake Stevens schools investigating apparent racist threat
Study suggests WhidbeyHealth CEO was paid too much
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Bloomberg Comment: Covid has taken a toll on cancer prevention and care
WaPo Comment: Democracy’s foes find allies among America First
Letter: Too many in county are unvaccinated to end mask use
Letter: City of Snohomish needs more affordable homes
Letter: Ukrainian freedom worth higher cost of gas

International Examiner
Viet-Wah site slated for redevelopment into apartments and retail
Bystander training offered to Seattle, national AAPI communities

News Tribune
Final push on new I-5 bridge in Tacoma begins soon. Decades-long HOV project nears end
Tacoma woman sentenced for burning Seattle Police cars during George Floyd protest
Op-Ed: Need a good job? Need workers? You’re not alone. Here’s how WA lawmakers can help

New York Times
Ukraine Live Updates: As Russians Surround Key City, Mayor Is ‘Waiting for a Miracle’
Jerome Powell says rates are headed higher, even as Ukraine poses uncertainty.
Russian Oil Not Worth the Trouble, Some Traders Conclude
Biden says Putin ‘badly miscalculated’ in invading Ukraine.
Covid Live Updates: White House Introduces New Response Strategy
Texas Investigates Parents Over Care for Transgender Youth, Suit Says

Olympian
Controversial capital gains tax struck down by Douglas County Superior Court judge
Active shooter alert at Hanford called a false alarm. No shooter found
Providence hospitals sued by WA state over billing of lower income patients
Thurston County adds 6 deaths as COVID-19 activity continues downward trend

Peninsula Daily News
County provides more time for ADU code change study
Washington, Oregon, California to lift mask mandates March 12
Regional health officer urges individuals to decide to wear masks
Port Angeles man takes over top marine sanctuary post
Heavy rains cause road closures elsewhere in state

Puget Sound Business Journal
Microsoft launches climate team led by exec hired from Shell
Opinion: Improving DEI outcomes takes more than a one-time investment

Seattle Times
Landslide closes westbound Highway 18 near Auburn, but drier days are arriving for Seattle area
The IRS dropped ID.me’s facial recognition tech after backlash. WA is rolling it out in June
Should you unmask in WA? It may depend on where you live
In a blow to progressives, Douglas County court strikes down WA’s new capital-gains tax
King County to continue new juvenile restorative justice program, despite pushback
Column: Here’s proof the pandemic culture wars were never about the pandemic
Editorial: Modernize the Liquor and Cannabis Board

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit County sticking with plan for how to spend ARPA money
Skagit Habitat for Humanity making plans for growth
Skagit County to relocate COVID-19 testing site

Sol De Yakima
Más de 100 personas se reúnen en vigilia por Ucrania en el centro de Yakima

South Seattle Emerald
ICHS President and CEO Teresita Batayola Appointed to Presidential Advisory Commission
Rainier Avenue Partially Reopen After Closure Due to Landslides
Celebrating the Women in Our Community — Call For Submissions!

Spokesman Review
Spokane City Council commits $500,000 toward redeveloping former Hillyard library into a mental health clinic
Health district reports first suspected COVID-19-related infant death
After Biden emphasizes unity in State of the Union, Northwest lawmakers’ reactions reflect ongoing division in Congress
Convoy protesting COVID-19 restrictions departs for nation’s capital from Spokane

Tri-City Herald
Hundreds gather in Richland for anti-war, pro-Ukraine demonstration
4 Hanford contractors awarded $77M in incentive pay. Veteran company does the best
What is the Hanford nuclear reservation? Where is it? Here’s what you need to know

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
City manager granted sole authority to fire future Walla Walla fire or police chiefs
Man’s efforts to act as Walla Walla’s first Covid-19 test courier reaches two-year anniversary
Walla Walla group plans Ukraine solidarity rally downtown Wednesday
From the Editor: Walla Walla Union-Bulletin announces change to print frequency

Washington Post
Russia strikes key cities; Biden says Moscow ‘more isolated’ than ever
U.S. prepares to expand financial attack on Russian oligarchs, aiming to seize billions held by Putin allies
Assassination plot against Zelensky foiled and unit sent to kill him ‘destroyed,’ Ukraine says
Biden’s State of the Union applauds unity against Russia, seeks more unity at home
Defendant in first Jan. 6 Capitol attack trial ‘lit the match’ of breach, Justice Dept. says

Yakima Herald-Republic
Yakima Council keeps position open after committee recommends Kenton Gartrell
Letter: Ukrainians get it, why don’t more Americans see it?
Letter: Why those 7 million real votes mattered

Broadcast

KING 5 TV (NBC)
9 law enforcement agencies form task force to combat catalytic converter thefts
Empact Northwest departs for Poland to help with Ukrainian refugee crisis

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
Mudslide blocks westbound SR 18 in Federal Way
United front on Eastside to fight catalytic converter thefts
More than a dozen landslides keep crews busy; how to check your risk and prepare

KOMO 4 TV (ABC)
Landslide near Auburn slams through retaining wall on Highway 18, westbound lanes closed
Biden promises to counter Russia, strengthen economy, move on from COVID
Legislation dies but efforts to address homeless camps on highways has last gasp (Kuderer)
State Department of Licensing site back online after data breach
Seattle City Council OKs hiring bonuses given to police, 911 workers in January
Local police departments start Catalytic Converter Task Force to curb sharp rise in thefts

KNKX Public Radio
Read President Biden’s full State of the Union remarks
Budget debate, helping Ukrainian refugees, masks among hot topics in Olympia

KUOW Public Radio
Kids To Continue Masking In Seattle Public Schools — Possibly For Two More Months
WA Rep. Newhouse says US must ‘do all it can’ to avert global crisis in Ukraine
Pandemic updates: Some health care workers urge people to keep masking
5 takeaways from Biden’s State of the Union address
The pandemic times are a-changin’: Today So Far

KXLY (ABC)
‘Super excited’: Mom finds local support to re-enter workforce, says help is out there for others
WSU relaxing some indoor masking starting March 12
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library will give Whitman County toddlers free books

Q13 TV (FOX)
State licensing website restored following data breach, months-long investigation

Web

Crosscut
Seattle’s eviction moratorium ended, but some protections remain
Rural WA nurses seek support for sexual assault examiner training
$340M WA immigrant relief fund plagued by monthslong delays (Rolfes, Ormsby)
WA capital gains tax ruled unconstitutional by trial judge (Jinkins)

MyNorthwest
Landslide blocks all westbound lanes of Highway 18 in Federal Way
Washington state’s capital gains tax unconstitutional, rules Douglas County Court
Mayor Harrell ends SPD hiring bonuses; council approves retroactive recruitment dollars
Hundreds of Uber, Lyft drivers rally for statewide rideshare-driver minimum wage
Washington continues to await answers on Daylight Saving Time as momentum builds in Congress
State House drops vaccination requirement for lawmakers at floor votes
Tacoma woman to spend 5 years in prison for setting fire to SPD vehicles during 2020 protest
King County officially ends COVID vaccine requirements for businesses
Washington’s COVID emergency order will not end yet, says Gov. Inslee
‘We are all Ukrainians today’: Gov. Inslee begins Russian commerce stoppage
State lawmakers introduce bill to lower BAC threshold for DUIs
Gov. Inslee moves end date for state’s indoor mask mandate up to March 12
Stevens Pass, Snoqualmie Pass reopen after early Monday closures
King County anticipates lifting indoor mask mandate in March
Rivers spill and records break as atmospheric river settles over Seattle area

The Stranger
Election Nerds Feud Over Whether or Not Approval Voting Violates Voting Rights

West Seattle Blog
DEVELOPMENT: Work under way at 3405 Harbor Avenue SW apartment-project site
CORONAVIRUS: City’s resource reminder on last day of eviction moratorium

Tuesday, March 1

Gov. Jay Inslee: Indoor, school mask mandates will end March 12 as COVID-19 rates fall
Gov. Jay Inslee said on Monday that he is moving up the date in which the state will no longer require people to wear masks in public indoor spaces and schools to March 12. Inslee last month set the date to drop the indoor mask mandate to March 21. But on Monday, Inslee said that he is confident that a continuing trend of declining COVID-19 case rates and hospitalizations will make it safe to lift mask mandates about a week before that. Continue reading at Kitsap Sun. (Ted S. Warren)

Rep. Sullivan: Tear down barriers to higher education and higher wages
Higher education opens doors to opportunity and good-paying jobs — for our children, our workers, and for our local businesses and hospitals as they face shortages in workers with the right skills and degrees. It is time to tear down some longstanding barriers to higher education for Washington students and families. Doing so would better uphold the notion that a degree or postsecondary credential is available to anyone willing to study hard and do the work. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Getty Images)

Inslee says ‘Washington stands with Ukraine,’ orders state to cut connections with Russia
Washington state agencies have been directed to identify and cancel commercial or other connections with Russian entities, Gov. Jay Inslee announced Monday during a press conference. “Simply put, the people of Washington stand with the people of Ukraine,” said Inslee. “We stand with the people of Russia who are protesting this vicious, malicious, totally unjustified act of violence.” Continue reading at The Olympian.