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Wednesday, May 5

New laws will tax the rich, offer aid to low-income workers
Gov. Jay Inslee on Tuesday signed bills that will impose a new tax on the state’s super wealthy and offer a bit of cash back to the poorest of Washington’s taxpayers. Seated at a table outside the Tukwila Community Center, Inslee first put his signature on the Working Families Tax Exemption which will steer annual rebates of up to $1,200 to low-income individuals and families across the state. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (Ted S. Warren)

Legislation removes second-degree robbery charges from three strikes law
During this year’s session, the Washington State Legislature voted nearly along party lines to pass a bill that removes all second-degree robbery convictions from the list of charges that apply to the state’s “three strikes” policy. On April 26, Gov. Jay Inslee signed Senate Bill 5164 into law, which will grant a resentencing hearing to people who have already been convicted of second-degree robbery and were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole under the three strikes law because of that conviction. Continue reading at The South Seattle Emerald. (Karen Neoh)

Suspending licenses for unpaid tickets is unconstitutional, WA court rules
A Thurston County Superior Court judge has ruled that Washington state’s practice of suspending licenses because of unpaid traffic fines is unconstitutional. In the ruling, Judge Mary Sue Wilson said the state’s Department of Licensing can only suspend licenses after it develops a method for evaluating whether people have the ability to pay for the tickets. Before the ruling, the department could suspend licenses for any unpaid moving violations, such as speeding tickets. Continue reading at KNKX. (Elaine Thompson)

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Associated Press
Amid legal challenge, capital gains tax signed into law
Washington state law to boost hospital transparency
Inslee: No new COVID-19 restrictions in Washington for now
Security fencing removed from Washington Capitol campus
America’s new normal: A degree hotter than two decades ago
Oregon extends COVID workplace mask rule indefinitely

Aberdeen Daily World
State, volunteers, tribes, shellfish growers work together to combat invasive European green crab
Governor announces two-week pause in state’s phased reopening plan
Point: Americans’ trust in media is broken; here’s how to fix it
Counterpoint: The path to restoring journalism as a pillar of our democracy

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the COVID-19 case numbers reported Tuesday for WA state
Fence removed at Capitol Campus in Olympia after months of heightened security
Whatcom surpasses 100,000 residents starting vaccination, but case, hospital numbers climb
Whatcom may see smoky skies again this summer
Governor grants reprieve from tighter COVID-19 restrictions
How do you ask someone if they got their COVID vaccine? Experts offer some tips

Capital Press
Wildfire season will arrive early in much of West

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Missing indigenous women to be honored in Toppenish on Wednesday

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Inslee orders two-week pause on counties sliding back phases
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
New laws will tax the rich, offer aid to low-income workers (Frame, Thai, Robinson)
Nurses Week, from May 6- 12, honors the nation’s caregivers
Bloomberg Comment: Rhetoric dismissing bridge spending ignores future
WaPo Comment: Schools, businesses can legally mandate vaccination
Editorial: Wyman right to object to Arizona ballot audit
Letter: Why is anyone in the military allowed to refuse covid vaccines?

High Country News
Tribes unveil landmark missing and murdered Indigenous person response
‘I’m scared of getting sick from the water’

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Letter: Join us to hear Supreme Court Justice speak

News Tribune (subscription required)
County Council OKs Hazard pay for grocery workers. Here’s why they likely won’t get it
State high court to sex predators: No automatic appeal if conditional release is revoked
Earthquake warning system goes live in Washington. What to know about ShakeAlert
Here’s where COVID shots can be found with no appointment necessary in Pierce County
Editorial: Is special seating for the vaccinated a good idea? Tacoma Rainiers think so. We agree

Olympian (subscription required)
North Thurston says in-person learning will expand for all hybrid learners on May 17
Should you have your license suspended if you can’t pay a fine? Judge says no
Governor grants reprieve from tighter COVID-19 restrictions
Burned-out Griswold’s building proposed to become mixed-income housing

Peninsula Daily News
Clallam County plans to funnel state funding to 15 housing projects
Events can increase capacity with vaccinated sections
Sequim schools looking toward 2021-2022 plans
Two more COVID deaths in Clallam County
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance

Puget Sound Business Journal
Experts share what you should know about Washington’s new capital gains tax
Sea-Tac Airport teams with Alaska, Delta to let passengers reserve a TSA screening time
SBA’s PPP has run out of funding — unless you apply with this kind of lender.
Inslee pauses Covid reopening plan for 2 weeks; counties to remain in current phase

Seattle Times (subscription required)
No, Inslee’s ‘vaccine seating’ doesn’t stifle freedom — it expands it
‘String-of-pearls’ in night sky were SpaceX satellites
Inslee signs off on capital gains tax for wealthy and tax rebate for lower-income workers in Washington (Thai, Pedersen)
Inslee pauses COVID reopening plan; no Washington counties to roll back for 2 weeks
Opinion: SPU can atone for harmful history by embracing LGBTQ community

Skagit Valley Herald
Providers planning to tackle slowing vaccination rate
Shell Puget Sound Refinery sold
Comment deadline extended for county shoreline plan
Inslee declares two-week pause on state reopening plan, keeping Skagit County in Phase 3

South Seattle Emerald
Legislation removes second-degree robbery charges from Three Strikes law (Darneille)
March draws attention to genocide in Ethiopia’s Tigray region
State officials pause reopening plan evaluation, keeping King County in Phase 3
Why the NAACP Youth Council is demanding the dismantling of HCC
New mothers gain longer coverage from Medicaid, saving lives
Opinion: Reclaiming the history of May Day
Ticketing vehicle residents is eviction and happening, despite COVID-19 moratoriums
Weekend Long Reads: A whole lot of sloshing going on! What a tsunami would do in Puget Sound

Spokesman Review
Spokane venues considering the creation of vaccinated-only sections to increase capacities
Spokane City Council says no, again, to multifamily housing in Southgate neighborhood
Is a 95% reduction in Spokane’s emissions possible by 2050? A new plan calls on the city to try
Washington officers who died in the line of duty honored at Spokane memorial
‘Jewel of the college’: Spokane Falls Community College ‘excited’ for new fine arts, photography facility
Seattle Times: Washington schools have logged 182 COVID-19 outbreaks this school year, says new report
Opinion: Alexandra Wilkes: Ban on contractors at immigration processing facilities based on politically-motivated misinformation

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities pop-up COVID vaccine clinics planned. No appointments, no cost
Planning commission weighs in on contentious Tri-Cities hilltop hotel and condo proposal
2 Tri-Cities businesses to pay penalties to settle EPA lead paint claims
Tri-Cities July 4th River of Fire fireworks 2021 canceled
New witness, van sighting, TikTok video revive 2003 missing Tri-Cities girl case
Tri-Cities dodges tighter COVID restrictions. But COVID hospital patients, case rates rise
No Water Follies boat races or air show for Tri-Cities this year. Both canceled
Kennewick officials shut down apartment complex for fire code violations
Massive Missouri mansion listed for $80 million. Sale will fund college scholarships
Tri-Cities divers discover truck underneath mud near Columbia Park

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Inslee announces pause on phase movement, including Walla Walla, Columbia counties
Walmart now offering walk-up COVID-19 vaccinations in College Place
New police station in Milton-Freewater up for vote this month
Walla Walla County reports 4 new cases, Umatilla County reports 15

Washington Post
Facebook’s Oversight Board upholds ban on Trump. At least for now.
Canada authorizes coronavirus vaccine for children ages 12 to 15
‘Uncertainty is not our friend’: Scientists are still struggling to understand the sea level risks posed by Antarctica
Club of rich countries to address unequal global vaccine rollout

Yakima Herald Republic
Reopening plan paused with Yakima County in Phase 3; local officials seek further rollback of restrictions

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
With vaccines key to reopening in Washington state, there’s a push to overcome hesitancy
Starlink satellites from SpaceX launch spotted over western Washington, UW expert says
Meet the Seattle doctor who Dr. Fauci trusted to help develop COVID-19 vaccines
Children ages 12 to 15 could soon be eligible for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine
Pierce County executive will veto ordinance granting $4/hour hazard pay for grocery workers

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Seattle tells homeless campers to clear out after double shooting, fire at Lake City park
Inslee announces 2-week pause to state’s reopening plan
Spray-painted swastikas found at Edmonds park
33 PPP loans, one company: How a WA drive-thru coffee chain got millions in COVID-19 funds
Pierce County staying in phase 2 for at least 2 more weeks
Chauvin’s lawyer seeks new trial, hearing to impeach verdict
Who’s hiring? Tech jobs expand over pre-pandemic levels in Washington
Bellingham brewery hosts vaccine event; customers get free beer after receiving COVID-19 shot

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Inslee: No more Phase 2 rollbacks for now despite COVID-19 surge
Washington counties on cusp of COVID phase rollback react to Inslee pause
Restaurants, businesses breath sigh of relief after Gov. Inslee pauses phasing rollback
Concrete barriers at Seattle’s East Precinct coming down in major turning point
‘Where’s the accountability?’ West Seattle neighbors frustrated with repeated mail thief
Despite new efforts, vaccine hold-outs proving hard to convince
Fear of needles may play small role in COVID vaccine hesitancy
Thin blue line decals on Pierce Transit police cruisers stir concern

KNKX FM
Suspending licenses for unpaid tickets is unconstitutional, WA court rules
Inslee signs capital gains tax into law even as legal challenges loom

KUOW FM
King County will not fall back to Phase 2…for now
Covid updates for Seattle and the Northwest
Hotels And Restaurants That Survived Pandemic Face New Challenge: Staffing Shortages
Entire U.S. West Coast Now Covered By Earthquake Early Warning System
For WA counties on the verge of a phase rollback, a surprising day on the Covid front
Schools are open again, so why are so many Seattle area students of color staying home?
May 4th | Governor Jay Inslee announces two-week pause on reopening plan
An uncertain future for affordable housing in Bellevue

KXLY (ABC)
Spokane County still hangs on to Phase 3
‘As long as we’re not closed down, I’m okay;’ Spokane restaurants relieved as county stays in Phase 3
Inslee leaving counties in current phases – for now

Q13 TV (Fox)
Frustration in Pierce County over Phase 2 COVID restrictions remaining in place
Inslee pauses COVID reopening plan; all counties to remain in their current phases
Seattle area high school students create all-digital magazine focused on AAPI issues
New mass vaccination clinic welcomes walk-ins at South Hill Mall in Puyallup
Massage industry seeing increase in clientele with vaccinations rising, but some worry about vaccine hesitancy

Web

MyNorthwest
Tacoma Rainiers will be first team in state to start using ‘vaccinated only’ seating
Seattle Mariners to hand out $65,000 in racial equity grants
Pierce County Executive to veto newly-passed grocery store hazard pay ordinance
Pause in rollback ‘welcome news’ for many Washington residents, businesses
Kraken launch foundation focused on youth homelessness
New law reduces sales tax on hydrogen vehicle purchases in Washington
Gov. Inslee signs Washington’s new capital gains tax
Pilot of ‘no touch’ technology, virtual queue for TSA lines comes to Sea-Tac
Gov. Inslee announces two-week pause on Phase 2 rollbacks

Slog
All Washington Counties Will Remain in Current Phase for Two Weeks, Inslee Announces

West Seattle Blog
PCC members elect three newcomers to board, including 2 employees

Tuesday, May 4

‘You’re on mute’: How a virtual session changed the dynamic in the 2021 Legislature
When lawmakers began thinking about the 2021 Legislature, they had no idea if a virtual session was even possible. In practice last winter, many said they weren’t ready for floor debates, and virtual systems weren’t yet set up. But after 105 days, dozens of Zoom backgrounds and too many “You’re on mute” utterances to count, the Legislature finished what many are calling a “historic” session. And not one COVID-19 case was noted during the session. Continue reading at The Spokesman-Review. (Ted S. Warren)

New law requires Washington schools to provide free menstrual products to students
Public and private schools in Washington will soon be required to provide free menstrual products to students. House Bill 1273 was signed into law by Governor Jay Inslee on Monday. The law states that schools must provide menstrual hygiene products in all gender-neutral and female bathrooms by the beginning of the 2022-23 school year. Continue reading at KXLY.

A tax break used by Arlington, Marysville goes statewide
An expiring property tax break which has helped Arlington and Marysville bring new businesses to the Cascade Industrial Center is getting extended. And soon every city in Washington can consider using it for themselves. Continue reading at The Everett Herald.

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Associated Press
Washington prisons to resume in-person visits
University of Washington to require COVID-19 vaccinations
WA events can increase capacity with vaccinated sections
$6 million settlement for men abused at Kiwanis boys home
US to reallocate COVID shots to states with greater interest
Some events can increase capacity with vaccinated sections
ShakeAlert earthquake warning system goes live this week

Aberdeen Daily World
Old Pioneer Paper Building in Aberdeen set for demolition
$168.6M for 19th District projects in state Capital Budget

Auburn Reporter
Washington gets mobile earthquake alerts
Wolf population continues to make a comeback in Washington
Column: Needle exchange program: Compassion vs. intolerance | Roegner
Column: Rethinking a natural gas ban in Washington state | Brunell

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Watch Live: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee to give COVID-19 update Tuesday at 11 a.m.
Washington events can increase capacity with vaccinated-only sections, governor says
Here are the COVID-19 case numbers reported Monday for WA state
In-person visits at Washington prisons to resume Mother’s Day
How many Whatcom residents are not receiving their second COVID-19 vaccination doses?
While Whatcom’s vaccine numbers dropped, cases and hospitalizations climbed last week
More Washington colleges will require COVID shots for students in fall semester
Lewiston Tribune: Key salmon populations cross alarming threshold — and more are nearing that line
Washington’s rural communities are growing — and COVID played a role, report says
Restaurants and bars can apply now for federal COVID relief funds. Here’s what to know
Can you safely gather with vaccinated people if you’ve already had COVID? What to know
Watch: WA Gov. Inslee COVID-19 update, Corrections announcement Thursday (April 29)

Capital Press
Washington Farm Bureau joins push to review record $18M fine

The Daily News
Cowlitz County Board of Health to expand beyond commissioners and include providers, citizens under new state law

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
YVC will have dental evaluation clinic on May 8

Everett Herald (subscription required)
A tax break used by Arlington, Marysville goes statewide (Wicks)
‘Healthy Streets’ not coming back, but Everett plans bike work
In children’s book, court-involved kids show what’s possible
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: Navy shipyards must be part of building back better
WaPo Comment: A few refusing to let the Big Lie and its riots go
WaPo Comment: Child care opponents’ double-talk on who stays home

High Country News
The toxic, soupy biomass choking water systems in California

News Tribune (subscription required)
33 PPP loans, one company: How a WA drive-thru coffee chain got millions in COVID-19 funds
Fence removed at Capitol Campus in Olympia after months of heightened security
Pierce County Council to consider requiring COVID-19 hazard pay for grocery workers
Retiring THA director as unassuming as his ’82 Corolla. His legacy, though, shines through
Editorial: Lifting refugee cap is moral duty, and welcome news for Iranian family in Tacoma area

Olympian (subscription required)
Plan to bring 680-foot ship to the Port of Olympia isn’t happening just yet
Key salmon populations cross alarming threshold — and more are nearing that line
Watch Live: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee to give COVID-19 update Tuesday at 11 a.m.
Washington events can increase capacity with vaccinated-only sections, governor says

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Nearly 100 COVID cases tied to gatherings
Letter: Supports plan for Snake River dams
Letter: Wind turbines

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Washington counties find out Tuesday if they’ll move back in the state’s reopening plan
Bill and Melinda Gates to divorce with $146 billion at stake
With vaccination on the rise, Metro Transit plans for a rider rebound. But not everyone is eager to board the bus.
Amazon overrules employees’ calls to stop selling book questioning mainstream treatment for transgender youth
A proposed $1.7 billion wind and solar project generates hopes and fears in South Central Washington state
NOAA unveils new U.S. climate ‘normals’ that are warmer than ever
UW says students need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by fall

Skagit Valley Herald
Timeline advances for La Conner Swinomish Regional Library

Spokesman Review
Spin Control: Why a bill to designate Chinese American history month hit a brick wall this session (Thai)
Inslee signs bill to give tax relief to those rebuilding after natural disaster
‘You’re on mute’: How a virtual session changed the dynamic in the 2021 Legislature (Jinkins, Billig, Dhingra, Rolfes, Liias)
University of Washington joins WSU in crafting COVID-19 vaccine requirement for students

Tri-City Herald
No Water Follies boat races or air show for Tri-Cities this year. Both canceled
Kennewick officials shut down apartment complex for fire code violations
Tri-Cities school districts shorten quarantines for students faced with COVID contact
Body found at edge of farm circle still a mystery, say Tri-Cities investigators
A year later, who is back to work in Tri-Cities and who is not?
Tri-Cities divers discover truck underneath mud near Columbia Park
COVID cases growing, as state considers if Tri-Cities can stay in Phase 3
Straw hat robbery suspect arrested hours after Tri-Cities holdup
Richland man catches neighbor’s house on fire while burning weeds
$2B in stimulus created 2,500 Hanford jobs 12 years ago. Tri-Cities leaders want a repeat

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla area ranks in top 10 for driest April, March
Innovations Charter School to cease operations at end of school year
Local health officials eye possible easing of COVID-19 restrictions, metrics

Washington Post
The coronavirus vaccine skeptics who changed their minds
White House plans to redistribute unordered vaccine supply, telling states: Use it or lose it
India cracks 20 million coronavirus cases as infections spread
Garland emphasizes need for funding on domestic terrorism and civil rights work
Gun injuries put over a half-million people in hospitals from 2000 to 2016, study finds
Wealthy nations still aren’t doing enough during the pandemic

Yakima Herald Republic
Governor signs bill to increase hospital transparency in Washington
Gathering in honor of missing and murdered Indigenous women set for Wednesday in Toppenish
Opinion: Yakima County has reason to celebrate capital budget

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Inslee’s Tuesday morning COVID-19 update could come with Phase 2 rollbacks
Potential Phase 2 rollback puts strain on Snohomish, King County’s local businesses
Seattle Children’s ordered to release mold records in precedent-setting case
Seattle to offer more pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics to boost access
‘Vaccinated-only’ sections can fill to capacity at churches, sporting events in Washington

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Business owners brace for reopening rollbacks
Who’s hiring? Barely a pandemic pause in construction jobs
ShakeAlert earthquake early warning system launches Tuesday
Pierce County Council to consider requiring COVID-19 hazard pay for grocery workers
Washington prisons to resume in-person visits
UW to require COVID-19 vaccine for all students
Washington launches site to find and claim lost funds
3 mass vaccination sites in Seattle offering COVID-19 shots without an appointment

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Inslee to create vaccinated sections to boost capacity at sports, graduations
Security fencing at state Capitol in Olympia is coming down
Decision day nears for counties at risk of being ordered to move to a lower COVID phase
University of Washington to require COVID-19 vaccination for its students
India’s coronavirus crisis could have ripple effects in the Northwest
Everett grapples with getting the unsheltered off city streets as new ordinance looms

KUOW FM
Washington 2-year experiment under new drug possession law
Covid updates for the Seattle and the Northwest

KXLY (ABC)
New law requires Washington schools to provide free menstrual products to students
‘It’s incredibly demoralizing’: Spokane prepares to go back to Phase 2

NW Public Radio
Even In The Bright Of Day, Some Klickitat County Residents Have A Solar Energy ‘Nightmare’

Q13 TV (Fox)
ShakeAlert early earthquake warning system launches in Washington
Just walk in: 3 Seattle mass vaccination sites now open without appointments
Possible rollbacks could delay western Washington summer camps again
Washington businesses brace for rollbacks
Washington to allow ‘vaccinated sections,’ increasing capacity at sports arenas and other venues

Web

Crosscut
King County jails struggling with high vaccine rejection among inmates
Washington Legislature charts ‘new beginning’ in climate change fight
What can our cities do for us? Columnist Rubén Casas has ideas

MyNorthwest
Olympic National Park rescue ‘by far the most difficult’ of Coast Guard commander’s career
Remaining fencing at Olympia Capitol coming down on Tuesday
DoorDash to pay out $15,000 to settle claim it violated Seattle sick-pay laws
Total of 182 COVID-19 outbreaks at K-12 schools in Washington since last August
Pierce County does not expect to have to roll back to Phase 1
Suquamish Tribe reaches agreement for sports betting contract in Washington
Mariners to offer COVID-19 vaccines during games at T-Mobile Park
Spectator events, religious organizations can increase capacity with vaccinated sections
University of Washington to require COVID vaccine for on-campus students
Study shows impact of Cascadia tsunami on Puget Sound communities
Lawsuit over Fort Lawton affordable housing project dismissed after two-year court battle
SPD says newly-passed policing bill will have ‘limited’ effect on city

Monday, May 3

Big bills, quiet halls: How Washington’s ‘historic’ 2021 legislative session stacks up
As legislators and Gov. Jay Inslee reflect on the 105-day flurry of lawmaking, the word “historic” is commonplace. They passed sweeping policies in priority areas that reflect the times: from police reform and racial equity, to climate change and COVID-19. Continue reading at The Olympian. (TVW)

At the Washington Legislature, big and surprising wins on climate, policing and tax proposals. Why now?
It’s hard to imagine a more consequential 105 days for state government in Washington’s recent history. At the start of the legislative session in January, state lawmakers and Gov. Jay Inslee faced a host of vexing uncertainties. COVID-19 case counts had hit their peak and it remained to be seen whether the federal government would provide the state more financial relief. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Bettina Hansen)

Washington Legislature charts ‘new beginning’ in climate change fight
Lawmakers in Olympia have bound Washington state’s fortunes — literally — to the fight against climate change with a legislative blitz, enacting a “historic” suite of climate protections. Before adjourning on April 25, Democrats passed a pair of sweeping restrictions on greenhouse gas pollution intended to aggressively cut Washington’s carbon footprint while driving billions of dollars into state coffers and toward clean energy. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Dan DeLong)

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Associated Press
States see potential federal windfall, go slow on road taxes
Wall Street logs early gains Monday on strong earnings
Family sues state Corrections over cancer death at Monroe prison
Indoor events bring virus outbreak in Republic, Washington

Aberdeen Daily World
Aberdeen will not consider an ordinance for grocery worker hazard pay
County ends first-dose clinics at the COVID-19 mass vaccination site
Commentary: Nine in 20 of us identify as independents. So how can we be polarized?

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Should your credit score impact your insurance rates? State says no, and court agrees
State reports more than 1,600 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday
Work on this congested I-5 crossing in Bellingham aims to ease a continual problem
United our states stand … but not when it comes to scooter and many other traffic laws
In Whatcom County, work continues to get COVID vaccine to these underserved communities
Thirty new COVID cases in Whatcom as hospitalization rate moves closer to missing goal
One death, 32 new COVID cases; state estimates 31% of Whatcom residents fully vaccinated
Talks to reopen U.S.-Canada border lack ‘sense of urgency’ on either side, official says
State reports more than 1,600 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers for Washington state
A doctor talks about importance of COVID-19 vaccinations in minority communities
Coronavirus weekly need-to-know: CDC guidelines, vaccine demand, hospitalizations & more
Mutant strain of virus a growing concern, says Inslee
Teens say anti-vaccine protesters heckled them while getting COVID shots in Oregon

Capital Press
All for one: Farmers in three states pitch in to fund NW potato research
Hemp prices ‘race to the bottom,’ souring grower enthusiasm
Lawmakers seek to ground WDFW wolf marksmen
Biden administration will look to overturn spotted owl habitat rollbacks
Pacific Northwest faces shutdowns amid rising virus cases
Washington lawmakers go for broke on fuel bills
UW study finds COVID virus in dogs, no public health risk

Columbian
Washington Legislature wraps up: Included on list of wins are capital gains, carbon output (Stonier, Cleveland, Wylie)
Shaking hands may be the next partisan divide in Washington
In Our View: Requiring vaccinations to attend schools is good
In Our View: Virus continues to show it isn’t done with us
CVS, Walgreens have wasted more vaccine doses than most states combined

The Daily News
Cowlitz County likely to remain in Phase 2, some larger counties in danger of backslide
State funds $2.2M for Port of Kalama pedestrian bridge, other Cowlitz County projects

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Employers in the county offer jobs, but not enough applicants

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Lake Stevens annexation advances without public vote
Charges: Stanwood farm owners starved alpacas, killing some
The Smith Avenue homeless community has suddenly dispersed
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: Churches have practiced ‘cancel culture’ for centuries
Comment: If students are on field they can be back in class
Comment: Regional airports, small planes a lifeline for state
Bloomberg Comment: Vaccine ‘passports’ coming; and that’s a good thing
Editorial: Joint program connecting homeless families, school

The Facts Newspaper
King County fireworks ban approved by full council
REAL ID enforcement date delayed (again) until May 3, 2023
Paycheck Protection Program for the Creative Industry deadline May 31
Funding available to local governments statewide through the Local Records Grant Program
Book Your COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments TODAY!
Restaurant Revitalization Grant will open on May 3

High Country News
Klamath water illegally diverted to farming during severe drought

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Drug decriminalization debate just getting started (Dhingra)
‘Strong possibility’ Kitsap will be pushed back to Phase 2 as COVID-19 cases rise

News Tribune (subscription required)
Can lessons learned in King County help Pierce County curb illegal street racing?
MultiCare, urgent care providers reach contract agreement focusing on safety issues
Editorial: Want to buy a healthy puppy? Washington pet stores are blind bet. State must fix this (Kirby)
School-related COVID-19 outbreaks in Washington state reach 182 after case surge
Two injured in shooting at Southcenter mall in Tukwila

New York Times
Reaching ‘Herd Immunity’ Is Unlikely in the U.S., Experts Now Believe
E.P.A. to Announce Sharp Limits on Powerful Greenhouse Gases
Live Updates: Republicans Push for Biden to Shrink Infrastructure Plans
Widespread Commodity Shortages Raise Inflation Fears
Biden’s Proposals Aim to Give Sturdier Support to the Middle Class

Olympian (subscription required)
Big bills, quiet halls: How Washington’s ‘historic’ 2021 legislative session stacks up (Billig, Taylor, Robinson, Entenman, Fitzgibbon, Dhingra, Liias)
Racist ‘Zoom’ bombing is traced to Olympia School District student, North Thurston says
United our states stand … but not when it comes to scooter and many other traffic laws
Should your credit score impact your insurance rates? State says no, and court agrees
See how many people in WA have been vaccinated — and how to make your appointment
State reports more than 1,600 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Peninsula adds 24 COVID cases
COVID-19 cases increase among children in Clallam

Port Townsend Leader
Four more COVID-19 infections found in Jefferson County

Puget Sound Business Journal
Covid-19 is affecting CRE lease negotiations. Here’s what experts are seeing.
Boeing says in first-ever diversity report that it fired 65 employees for hateful conduct
Thousands register as opening day nears for Restaurant Revitalization Fund
SBA got $25B for its EIDL Advance grant programs. It has awarded just a tiny fraction.

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Downtown Seattle dying? Not so fast. Demand for office space roars back to pre-pandemic levels
Seattle may boost water, sewage, waste and drainage rates more than 20% by 2026. Here’s why.
Two King County communities look to the land to heal generational trauma
The political vaccine divide in Washington state is widening — and COVID rushes in
At the Washington Legislature, big and surprising wins on climate, policing and tax proposals. Why now? (Rolfes, Gregerson, Carlyle, Fitzgibbon, Lekanoff, Mullet, Johnson)
Washington state’s carbon pricing bill could be most far-reaching in nation. How will it work? (Carlyle, Fitzgibbon)
What Seattle can learn from Berkeley about reducing police role in traffic stops

Skagit Valley Herald
Cities, port, tribe: Risk of mining in Skagit River headwaters is too great

Tri-City Herald
$500,000 donation is 1st step for new energy institute at WSU Tri-Cities
Officials warn ATVs to stay out of south Richland park area
Hearing Monday on contentious plan for boutique hotel, condos in Kennewick
Ceremony formalizes tribal relationship with Kennewick
A Tri-Cities school district is one of 1st in WA to host student COVID vaccine clinics
Tri-Cities veteran who lived like a pauper leaves $1.5 million to save pets and more
230+ acres burn in Yakima River delta
‘Ongoing threat.’ Groups demand action on leaking Hanford nuclear waste tank
Tri-Cities doctor has medical license suspended. He’s accused of hugging, kissing patients

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla area food truck dining is on a roll — no indoor seating in the way
Walla Walla protest Saturday tied to allegations of unfair treatment by local attorney and county jail staff
College Place to add six more portable classrooms at Davis Elementary
Walla Walla drug dealer gets prison, treatment in tearful sentencing hearing
Walla Walla’s Mainstem Malt launches crowdsourcing growth campaign

Washington Post
Many police officers spurn coronavirus vaccines as departments hold off on mandates
Justice Dept. probes of local police prompt hopes for reform, fears of delays
Biden administration to propose first rule requiring cut in climate pollutants
More than a year into the pandemic, we’re still figuring out what risks we’re willing to take
India’s vaccine shortage to last months, top manufacturer warns

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
People are packing up and moving to Washington’s rural communities, real estate report shows
COVID-19 vaccines being offered at Seattle Sounders home games
Earthquake early warning system launching in Washington state this week
Eastside COVID-19 pop-up clinic aimed at increasing vaccination rate among Latino community
Women outpace men for vaccines in Washington
Foundation launches with $125 million to combat anti-Asian hate

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
More than a dozen WA counties poised to roll back phases
ShakeAlert earthquake early warning system launches Tuesday
Can lessons learned in King County help Pierce County curb illegal street racing?
Sounders host first COVID-19 vaccine clinic during home game at Lumen Field
King County businesses brace for COVID-19 rollback
Fourteen arrested during May Day demonstrations
WA vaccine supply is strong. Walk-ins welcome

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
COVID 4th wave: More cases, younger patients than initial surge in Wash. state
EXCLUSIVE: Classified study found COVID-19 could have originated in Chinese lab
ShakeAlert earthquake warning system goes live this week
LISTEN: The problems with the how lawmakers “fixed” the Blake Decision
Neighbors in shock after shootings, explosion at homeless camp in Albert Davis Park
Restaurant owners worried, frustrated over possible rollback to Phase 2
Wash. reports more than 1,600 new cases Saturday, some counties at risk of rolling back

KNKX FM
Tacoma launching guaranteed income program
New mapping offers more details on how ‘the big one’ might hit local Navy installations
Road checks, getting vaccine from Washington among B.C.’s new tools in COVID fight

KUOW FM
Here’s what heading back to the office might look like
Pandemic blog: Covid-related updates for Seattle and the Northwest
Can’t Help Falling In Love With A Vaccine: How Polio Campaign Beat Vaccine Hesitancy

KXLY (ABC)
WA Dept. of Health to evaluate which counties move back to Phase 2 on Monday

Q13 TV (Fox)
Brandi Kruse: Would you put up with these working conditions?
The Divide: Pushing out Police
May Day 2021: More than a dozen arrested during Seattle demonstrations

Web

Crosscut
Cascadia needs cleaner fuels to trim carbon emissions by 2030
Podcast | Uncovering racism and inequity in the health care industry
Washington Legislature charts ‘new beginning’ in climate change fight (Carlyle, Hobbs, Saldaña, Ramos)
Opinion: Compassion Seattle has a plan for a tent-free city. Does it hold up?

MyNorthwest
SPD says newly-passed policing bill will have ‘limited’ effect on city
Equipment, supplies, vaccine vials stolen in Purdy burglaries
COVID updates: Vaccines ‘driving decline in epidemic’ nationwide
Mountlake Terrace Police close to filing charges in serial crow killings
With metrics ‘a done deal,’ data points to Phase 2 rollback for King County
Vaccines used after Snohomish County warns of expiration
Officials secure natural gas leak in South Lake Union neighborhood
Two men injured in shooting at Southcenter Mall
Climate Pledge Arena lays out plan to become world’s first carbon neutral arena
Ferry County voluntarily rolls itself back to Phase 2 of reopening early
Snohomish business says it needed lawyer to fix $11k unemployment tax error
Watchdog group: Conduct of SPD officer during August incident ‘unacceptable’

Slog
Seattle Should Make Curbside Dining Permanent

Friday, April 30

Washington state changing COVID-19 vaccine allocation to need-based approach
The Washington Department of Health (DOH) is adjusting the way it allocates COVID-19 vaccines. The state said the change would ensure vaccines reach more people statewide and where they are needed most. COVID-19 vaccines have been distributed pro-rata, meaning doses were allocated to counties based on the size of their population. But Gov. Jay Inslee said Thursday some counties are not ordering the vaccine because they don’t have enough people who want it. Continue reading at KING5 TV.

Sustainable funding is critical for community behavioral health agencies
As our lawmakers navigate the final phases of the pandemic, they will make hundreds of financial decisions aiming to maximize our collective recovery. If leaders aim to amplify the mental, physical and economic health of our communities, it is imperative that they invest in community behavioral health. Across Washington, nonprofit community behavioral health agencies are responsible for the health and wellness of our most vulnerable community members, enabling them to lead fulfilling, productive lives. Continue reading at The Yakima Herald. (Amanda Ray)

Washington Department of Corrections gets first female secretary
(DOC) will be led by a woman. On Thursday, Gov. Jay Inslee named Cheryl Strange as the agency’s next secretary. From 2008 to 2011, Strange was DOC’s deputy secretary. Currently, she’s the secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Previously, she was CEO of Western State Hospital (WSH). Continue reading at KUOW. (Washington DSHS)

Print

Associated Press
Social equity in marijuana industry still largely pipe dream
Washington changes COVID-19 vaccine allocations
US: Nuclear waste tank in Washington state may be leaking
Cheryl Strange named new head of Department of Corrections
The Latest: Dr. Fauci: Be sure to get 2nd dose of vaccines
US officials: Anxiety drove vaccine reactions in 5 states
Mother of slain man sues Seattle over handling of CHOP
123,000-gallon nuclear waste tank at Hanford may be leaking
US recovery from pandemic recession is showing momentum

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Watch: WA Gov. Inslee COVID-19 update, Corrections announcement Thursday (April 29)
More than 1,700 new COVID-19 cases reported Thursday in Washington state
Whatcom should stay in Phase 3 Monday, but future is hazy as county sees 34 new COVID cases
Who’s getting vaccinated in Whatcom County? New data shows these racial and age differences
Vaccine demand wanes as a dozen counties are threatened with more COVID-19 restrictions
Whatcom surpasses 8,000 COVID cases, as one death and seven hospitalizations reported
Aging Hanford tank is leaking radioactive waste into the ground, feds say
Mutant strain of virus a growing concern, says Inslee
100 million fully vaccinated against COVID in United States, White House announces
Schools should ‘probably’ be open in the fall despite no vaccines for kids, Biden says
Coronavirus weekly need-to-know: CDC guidelines, vaccine demand, hospitalizations & more
FDA moves to ban menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars. Could it help smokers quit?

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Two legs or four: All welcome to board Mukilteo’s ferry ramp
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Boeing says it fired 65 workers for hateful words or actions
Amazon’s profit more than triples as pandemic boom continues
WaPo Comment: Santorum and his critics wrong on Indigenous history
Editorial: The ‘forgotten astronaut’ and the state GOP

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Bainbridge Island citizen commission triples City Council salaries
Pacific Northwest faces shutdowns amid rising virus cases
Man ID’d, charged in U.S. Capitol riots may have helped push barricade into police officer

News Tribune (subscription required)
Pierce County sees more than 100 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday
New vaccine clinic opens in Puyallup as state seeks higher vaccine numbers
2 Pierce County school districts plan to return to full-time in-person class this fall
Key figure in Tacoma’s public housing arena to retire. ‘No one can replace Michael’
At least 100 Tacoma households will get $500 per month as part of new city program
Pierce County to spend millions on COVID-19 relief for residents, businesses
Washington distilleries are forbidden by law from qualifying for federal restaurant aid
Editorial: No Chinese American recognition in Washington. Simple bill dies peculiar death, twice (Liias, Nguyen)

Olympian (subscription required)
Vaccine demand wanes as a dozen counties are threatened with more COVID-19 restrictions
Thurston County announces 2 COVID-19 deaths and 86 cases on Thursday
More than 1,700 new COVID-19 cases reported Thursday in Washington state
Washington state creates permanent rental assistance program (Macri, Ormsby, Robinson, Mullet, Hobbs)
‘I was arrested:’ Olympia City Council members share their own interactions with police

Puget Sound Business Journal
Opinion: K-12 schools are not preparing students for the workforce

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Op-Ed: Planning for the electric-vehicle future is smart policy (Ramel)

Skagit Valley Herald
Anacortes School District pulling back on in-person learning plans
Skagit County receives funding for morgue

Spokesman Review
Former DSHS lead to become first woman to head state Department of Corrections
Washington becomes latest state to clarify ban on hemp-derived ‘delta-8’ cannabis products
Spokane-area restaurants reflect on the ‘really disheartening’ threat of going back to Phase 2

Tri-City Herald
Kiona-Benton City school levy passing by a slim margin. It’s the 3rd try
Richland delta fire ignites Columbia Point sending smoke billowing across Tri-Cities
Tri-Cities adds community-funded reporter to cover indigenous communities. Here’s how to help
Benton and Franklin counties may both fail reopening check, Tri-Cities health officer warns
Aging Hanford tank is leaking radioactive waste into the ground, feds say
Driver critical after truck flips on I-82 exit south of Richland
UPDATE: 85-acre wildlife area fire may burn for 30 days along Yakima River delta
Benton County new COVID case rate jumps above state reopening standard
COVID vaccine goes unused at Tri-Cities fairgrounds this week
8.5% of Hanford High students are now quarantined. Some parents are upset
Tri-Cities soccer star continues success at collegiate level
Hanford employee was on meth when he caused head-on driving to work
Verification process for Benton County Sheriff Hatcher recall begins
Brush fire burning near the intersection of Highway 240 and Columbia Park Trail

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla man takes plea deal in porch pirate case
Cottonwood Road property annexation moves forward, but isn’t a done deal
Remembering traditional country musician and Walla Walla resident Jo Shay
Walla Walla VA resumes Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Washington State Penitentiary employee returns home from hospital after attack

Yakima Herald Republic
Radio KDNA to air program in place of annual immigration march again this year
Officials encourage vaccinations as latest numbers may push Yakima County back to Phase 2
Guest Editorial: Sustainable funding is critical for community behavioral health agencies
Opinion: Food banks step up with resourcefulness, compassion

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington state changing COVID-19 vaccine allocation to need-based approach
Point Roberts wants to share excess vaccine supply with Canadian neighbors
Tacoma family claims son was harassed while shopping, demands answers
Washington health officials worry about increased COVID-19 counts in kids
Family of CHOP shooting victim files federal lawsuit against Seattle
Unemployment $10,200 tax break: Refunds set to start in May
Duwamish Tribe makes renewed push for federal recognition
Tacoma guaranteed income program to accept applications in early summer: Who can apply

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Inslee says fully vaccinated people will get special treatment for sports, performances
New CDC rules for resuming cruise ship sailings may not help Seattle
Seattle prepares to sweep homeless camp at Ballard playground
Puget Sound women’s group leaders applaud Biden for helping make history
COVID brought less traffic and speeding drivers, who still haven’t let off the gas
Bellevue School District pulls school resource officers from campus, angering some parents
Hundreds of doses of excess Pfizer vaccine administered at UW Medicine

KNKX FM
Washington Department of Corrections gets first female secretary
Biden’s next round of judicial nominees would add diversity to federal bench in WA

KUOW FM
Pandemic blog: Covid-related updates for the Northwest
Washington Department of Corrections gets first female secretary
King County braces for reopening rollbacks despite vaccination progress
WA climate cap bill fractures alliances on its way to Inslee’s desk

KXLY (ABC)
Dept. of Health to change vaccine allocation strategy
95 infected with COVID-19 following superspreader event in Republic

Q13 TV (Fox)
Tacoma looks to put $500 a month in the pockets of families in need
ShakeAlert early earthquake warning system launching in Washington next week
Family of man killed in Seattle’s CHOP zone files wrongful death lawsuit against city

Web

MyNorthwest
Gov. Inslee says more places, events may require proof of vaccination
Signs of another nuclear waste storage tank leaking at Hanford
Police search for new suspect in shooting that killed 8-year-old in Federal Way
Mayor Durkan: Seattle ‘so close’ to becoming first US city to be fully vaccinated
Seattle Sounders to begin handing out COVID vaccines to fans at home matches
Washington’s earthquake warning system launches next week
Family files federal lawsuit against Seattle over son killed in CHOP last summer
Seattle area leads nation in construction comeback
Cruises could resume out of Seattle this summer
Trying to get out of West Seattle? Time to apply for a pass
Man arrested for threatening to kill Seattle mayor

Slog
The Stranger’s Big-Ass Round-Up of What Just Went Down in Olympia (Mullet, Van De Wege, Cleveland, Hobbs, Carlyle, Kuderer, Macri, Frame, Fitzgibbon, Saldaña, Hasegawa)
Police Reform in Seattle Must Add “Deflation” to Its Defunding and Decriminalization Campaigns
Nightlife Venues Face Financial Doomsday — And So Do Nightlife Workers

Thursday, April 29

Washington Legislature approves $340M for COVID-19 Immigrant Relief Fund, making it one of the country’s largest
Washington’s Immigrant Relief Fund got an enormous boost this week when the Legislature approved $340 million in additional funding. That brings the total allocated so far, first by Gov. Jay Inslee and then by the Legislature, to $467 million — believed to make this the second-largest fund of its kind in the country, behind New York’s. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Bettina Hansen)

Washington state creates permanent rental assistance program
The idea of rental assistance — the government stepping in to pay people’s rent to prevent them from losing their home — is not new, but it has taken on a new prominence and urgency in the pandemic, as billions of federal dollars have helped pull tenants out from under mounting debt. Now, Washington state is making that policy permanent. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Steve Bloom)

WA schools catching up on Black history and ethnic studies
Washington state Rep. Jesse Johnson, D-Federal Way, doesn’t remember learning about Black history until the seventh grade. He recalls studying about slavery, but says most of the Black history he was taught “came in little pieces, it wasn’t that in-depth.” He wouldn’t really learn Black history until college at the University of Washington, where he majored in African American history. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Dorothy Edwards)