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Wednesday, April 28

Washington Joins Oregon, California, British Columbia In Passing Low-Carbon Fuel Standard
Changes may soon arrive at a gas pump near you thanks to new fuel standards that just landed on Washington Gov. Jay Inslee’s desk. The state’s new fuel standards will slowly lower the amount of heat-trapping greenhouse gasses coming out of vehicle tailpipes through 2035. That means cleaner technologies biodiesel or renewable natural gas will get a boost over gasoline and diesel. Continue reading at Northwest Public Broadcasting. (Ruben de Rijcke)

The legacy of racism built into Northwest highways and roads
Transportation and equity issues are deeply connected. As the Eastside and related suburbs become increasingly urban and vital, dealing with the legacy of race on the ground is important. Rail, transit, bike and pedestrian access and related development patterns are clearly a crucial part of the equation, as are more environmentally sustainable and less polluting transportation and energy. As Buttigieg said, racism was built into some of our highways. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Elaine Thompson)

Child care and early learning advocates in Washington state celebrate legislative wins
It was a big year in state politics for programs that serve students and children. Especially the youngest ones. The child care sector, which has struggled to recover from the financial impact of the pandemic, won a long-term financial boost through a new capital gains tax passed this legislative session, which concluded Sunday. Funded at more than $400 million over the next two years, a new law, the Fair Start Act, will require the state to expand access to early learning and child-care programs. Continue reading at The Seattle Times.

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Associated Press
Largest firefighting plane may be sold for COVID-19 response
Biden to pitch sweeping ‘family plan’ in speech to Congress
Immigration groups launch $50 million effort for citizenship

Aberdeen Daily World
Inslee gets his wish: A tax on capital gains and bill to fight climate change (Jinkins, Billig, Nguyen)
Aberdeen district expands learning options
Commissioners brainstorm, looking for savings
Van De Wege bill exempts salmon recovery grants from sales, B&O taxes (Van De Wege)

Auburn Reporter
All fireworks will be illegal in unincorporated King County in 2022
Auburn Community Court will be a ‘diversion court,’ not a ‘homelessness court’

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
COVID infection rates climb in six Whatcom regions last week — one to a pandemic high
Whatcom sees largest reported increase in new COVID cases in more than two months
Whatcom pays more than the U.S. average on some household bills. Here are the details
Unexpected millions in state budget make this Bellingham homeless service center a reality (Shewmake)
What could a magnitude-9 quake do to Washington? Study predicts tsunami impact
No COVID vaccine in Washington? No problem — Idaho removes residency requirement
These are the new CDC mask recommendations
CDC, FDA see no Pfizer vaccine link to heart problem, eyeing with ‘special interest’
New summer food program to feed more than 30 million kids, USDA says. What to know
Free pre-K, child tax credit and paid leave: A look at Biden’s American Families Plan

Capital Press
Despite drought, good water supply predicted for Columbia River

Centralia Chronicle
Governor Gives Tenants Protections, Reduces Help for Landlords (Kuderer)

Columbia Basin Herald
Capital gains, low-carbon fuel bills go to governor (Robinson, Liias, Carlyle)

Columbian
Battle Ground schools could eliminate nearly 60 jobs due to falling enrollment
In Our View: Legislature must end use of title-only bills

The Daily News
State awards Lower Columbia College $3.2M to design new $30M vocational building

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Snohomish County on verge of slipping back to Phase 2
Gone fishing: Trout season has begun across Washington
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Cohen: Comment: With vaccine success, why are marks still mandated?
WaPo Comment: ‘Anglo-Saxon’ has long been code for white supremacy
WaPo Comment: Small moments frame big picture of Biden’s 100 days
Editorial: Kids back in class; help keep them there
Letter: Cordon around Planned Parenthood is a win for protesters
Letter: Planned Parenthood fence sad commentary on issue

The Facts Newspaper
Tens of Thousands of Vaccine Appointments Available
Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine pause lifted: what this means for King County
City of Seattle to Administer More Than 50,000 Vaccinations

High Country News
California orders Nestlé to stop siphoning spring water

News Tribune (subscription required)
County Council’s investigation of Sheriff Troyer paused as state looks at criminal case
More than 100 new COVID-19 cases reported Tuesday in Pierce County
South Sound university will require COVID-19 vaccination for all returning students
Pierce County COVID cases soar even as vaccine appointments are plentiful. What gives?
Editorial: Vaccine information sucked into JBLM black hole. It’s time for Biden to let data out
Vaccinated people can now do these things safely, CDC says in updated COVID guidance

New York Times
Biden Details $1.8 Trillion Plan for Workers, Students and Families
The Biden Plan for Free Community College Has a Big Challenge
As Economy Rebounds, Manufacturers Face New Hurdles

Olympian (subscription required)
Thurston adds 22 cases as COVID-19 activity rises. Could the county revert to Phase 2?
Just 28% of Thurston County has been fully vaccinated. Here’s how to find a dose this week
State audit finds Thurston County paid employee for time not worked
What could a magnitude-9 quake do to Washington? Study predicts tsunami impact
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state

Peninsula Daily News
Clallam County, Port of Port Angeles to form broadband authority
State allocation fuels Port Hadlock Sewer Project (Tharinger)
Vaccine choice planned for Clallam County pop-up clinics

Puget Sound Business Journal
Sustainable aviation fuels get big boost from state Legislature
Health official: King County should brace for return to Phase 2 of reopening plan
Latest Employee Retention Credit guidance offers no new headaches, but some good opportunities

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Seattle residents are flocking to South King County during COVID pandemic
Child care and early learning advocates in Washington state celebrate legislative wins
Hit both by pandemic and quality problems, Boeing reports more losses
King County likely to move back to COVID reopening phase 2, public health director says
It’s Seattle’s state now in politics, and everybody else is living in it
Diaper stipend didn’t make Washington budget, but diaper banks and cash assistance did (Senn, Ormsby, Nguyen)
Opinion: Pandemic underscores need to invest in child care

Skagit Valley Herald
Anacortes approves $5.1 million contract to bring fiber internet to city’s west side
Two school districts pull back on in-person learning

Spokesman Review
Most Inland Northwest lawmakers won’t attend Biden’s pared-down address to Congress
Gonzaga University’s new chief diversity officer hopes to spearhead ‘impactful’ changes
Pride Prep charter school in Spokane faces tough questions over academic and financial performance
The CDC has loosened outdoor mask guidance for fully vaccinated people, but Spokane County’s COVID-19 numbers aren’t going in the right direction

Washington Post
White House proposes $1.8 trillion package that would dramatically expand education, safety net programs
Joanne Chory is using plants to save the planet
Global pandemic needs a more global response, Fauci says, amid record-breaking deaths in India
Lower-than-expected state population totals stoke concerns about the 2020 Census

Yakima Herald Republic
Drugs and gangs are drivers of violent crime on Yakama reservation, sheriff says during community meeting
Don’t miss Yakima Herald-Republic virtual child care town hall on Thursday
Skookum House will provide temporary home to children in foster care system in Ellensburg

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
WATCH LIVE: Washington State Department of Health gives update on COVID-19 pandemic
Seattle police warn of ‘staffing crisis’ after 66 more officers leave
How events in King County could be impacted by a Phase 2 rollback
King County investigates 17 ballots from 2020 general election suspected of fraud
Real-time results: Washington special election

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
CDC changes mask guidelines for fully vaccinated
Craft distillers left out of American Rescue Plan
Pacific Lutheran to require mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations
King County Council approves ban on fireworks in unincorporated areas
North King County COVID-19 vaccination site opening in Shoreline

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
King County nearing rollback to Phase 2 of re-opening plan as COVID-19 cases surge
More defunding considered if Seattle police departures continue
MIT study suggests social distancing may create ‘a false sense of security’
Texting option weighed for upcoming ‘988’ suicide hotline

KNKX FM
Listen: A look at historic legislative session, challenges ahead for some measures

KUOW FM
1 million COVID vaccines sit in freezers as Washingtonians hunt for doses
Pandemic blog: Covid-related updates for the Northwest
At Biden’s 100-Day Mark, Republicans Attempt To Paint His Policies As Far Left
Here’s What You Need To Know Ahead Of Biden’s Address To A Joint Session Of Congress
Biden Administration Limits Power Of ICE To Arrest Immigrants In Courthouses
How Inslee’s climate agenda just got a boost
April 27th | Washington State Supreme Court Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis

KXLY (ABC)
CDC says fully vaccinated people can ditch masks while outside
Experts push for younger people to get vaccinated as rising cases likely forcing Spokane County back to Phase 2

NW Public Radio
CDC Says If You’re Fully Vaccinated, You Don’t Need To Mask Outdoors (Unless You’re In A Crowd)
Governor Signs Law Banning Native-Themed High School Mascots, With Some Exceptions (Lekanoff)
Washington Joins Oregon, California, British Columbia In Passing Low-Carbon Fuel Standard
World’s Largest Firefighting Plane May Be Sold For COVID-19 Response, As Wildfire Season Heats Up

Q13 TV (Fox)
King County likely rolling back to Phase 2 of state’s COVID-19 reopening plan
King County Prosecutor reveals homicides, shootings continue to increase
Inslee: Fully-vaccinated Washingtonians can be outside maskless in non-crowded settings
Real ID deadline extended to 2023 due to ongoing pandemic: DHS
No appointment needed at Tacoma Dome mass vaccination site

Web

Civic Skunkworks
Civic Ventures Applauds the Passage of SB 5096

Crosscut
WA lawmakers try to thread needle on drug possession, to mixed reviews (Dhingra)
Opinion: The legacy of racism built into Northwest highways and roads
Shaking hands may be the next partisan divide in Washington state
Opinion: WA’s recognition of Juneteenth is a step toward a more inclusive history
Poll: Washingtonians aren’t quite ready for a post-pandemic normal
Eight big things the Washington State Legislature passed in 2021 (Lekanoff, Kuderer)
How Indigenous efforts to reclaim land tell the story of the PNW

MyNorthwest
State lawmaker: Capital gains tax ‘not necessarily’ the first step toward income tax (Frame)

Slog
Farewell, Styrofoam, We Hate You (Das)

Tuesday, April 27

Taxes, police reform and environment. Washington legislators wrap ‘historic’ session
Fifteen weeks ago, majority Democrats in the Washington Legislature convened a 105-day session vowing to address the fallout from COVID-19, police accountability, greenhouse gas emissions and issues of racial justice. On Sunday, Democrats adjourned the session having accomplished much of what they set out to do, including passage of a number of sweeping bills that Gov. Jay Inslee, in a statement, called “historic” in nature. Continue reading at KNKX. (Austin Jenkins)

Top 10 issues in Washington state’s 2021 legislative session
Washington’s Legislature adjourned on Sunday after a 105-day session. The magnitude of what transpired, often on a partisan basis, might be without precedent in the breadth and depth of its impact on residents’ daily lives. Here are the top 10 issues at a glance. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (Ted S. Warren)

Washington’s pandemic session: Remote work, weighty topics
Washington lawmakers had no shortage of weighty topics they tackled this session while having to conduct their work amid a pandemic that meant most meetings and votes were done remotely. By the time they concluded their 105-day session Sunday night, they had approved nearly a dozen measures on police reform, passed two key climate measures — cap-and-trade and a low-carbon fuel standard — that had long been priorities of Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee, and passed a new capital gains tax on high-profit stocks and bonds that had languished in previous legislative sessions. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Ted S. Warren)

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Associated Press
Washington state judge blocks some virus rules on farms
Census: Washington state population increases to 7.7 million
Washington’s pandemic session: Remote work, weighty topics (Jinkins)
State Legislature adjourns 105-day session, OKs $59B budget (Rolfes)
Feds start review of endangered Southern Resident orcas
Washington Legislature approves new capital gains tax (Robinson)
Gov. Jay Inslee signs ban on Native American school mascots
3 agencies investigate after engine fire on Wash. state ferry
New sentences coming for 3rd-strikers convicted of burglary
U.S. marks slowest population growth since the Depression
Washington Legislature Overhauls Drug Possession Law (Pedersen, Taylor)

Aberdeen Daily World
Skyrocketing lumber prices delay construction of Cosi municipal building (Tharinger)
How our lawmakers voted (Tharinger, Chapman)
Aberdeen Council approves 5-year contract for Main Street program
Crews applying fresh paint to Hoquiam Highway 101 Riverside Bridge
Bezos non-profit will fund preschool on the North Beach
Legislature approves nearly $9 million for new Fry Creek pump station
Skyrocketing lumber prices delay construction of Cosi municipal building

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
Whatcom sees largest reported increase in new COVID cases in more than two months
These evening hours, new location added to Bellingham COVID-19 vaccine clinics this week
How does Bellingham’s COVID-19 infection rate compare to other U.S. cities?
Did you feel the two earthquakes within 17 miles of Mount Baker’s summit last night?
Feds start review of endangered Southern Resident orcas
Running or jogging in the road? It’s likely illegal and definitely more risky
Whatcom County sees 29 new COVID-19 cases reported by state on Saturday
Vaccine helping, but not stopping COVID-19 spread, state says, as Whatcom sees 38 new cases
U.S. State Department adds Canada to ‘Do Not Travel’ list due to COVID concerns
No COVID vaccine yet? It’s finally ‘free, super fast’ at these Whatcom County clinics
Gray wolf population surges in Washington – and there’s a surprise for ranchers
Legislature adopts 1,100-page budget and adjourns 2021 session (Ormsby, Robinson, Rolfes)
Judge halts several WA state COVID rules intended to protect farm workers
Here’s the new approach to drug possession the Legislature is sending to Gov. Inslee (Bateman, Pederson, Dhingra, Davis, Taylor)
The WA Legislature plans to empty its Rainy Day fund. Here’s what it means if disaster strikes (Ormsby, Rolfes)
Washington state can resume use of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, Inslee says

Capital Press
Oregon gets 6th congressional district — but where?
Capital gains tax likely to hit Washington farmers
Washington state’s wolf count up 22% in 2020
Report: Gebbers workers safer in farm housing than community
Combine demolition derby canceled for second year

Columbian
In Our View: Lawmakers pass ambitious, optimistic budget
In Our View: Bauer’s devotion to learning improved county
State budget invests in Southwest Washington schools, community
Clark County reports 283 new COVID-19 cases, two deaths as pandemic regains steam

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Looking for a place to get vaccinated against COVID-19?
Several rules are lifted in farmworker housing after court ruling
Inslee: Washington has entered its fourth wave of COVID-19

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Top 10 issues in Washington state’s 2021 legislative session
Cornfield Report; 3 smoldering questions from the ashes of the 2021 session
Shaped by the pandemic, a partisan legislative session ends (Billig, Ortiz-Self, Jinkins, Dhingra)
A budget emerges as lawmakers reach session’s final day (Goodman, Robinson)
An execution or self-defense? Attorneys debate bus shooting
Council affirms ruling against Point Wells condo project
Inslee wants one more thing: An extra nickel at the gas pump (Hobbs)
Inslee signs law regulating use of Native-American mascots (Lekanoff)
U.S. 2 segment’s median barriers in place, bridge work ahead
Officials create a no-protest zone around Planned Parenthood
1 in 3 Snohomish County adults now fully vaccinated
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: Nursing was already dangerous before covid hit
WaPo Commentary: Getting vaccines around world requires activism
WaPo Comment: Five myths about red-flag gun possession laws
WaPo Viewpoints: What Chauvin verdict means for police, their duty
Comment: Hydropower crucial to a future for electric vehicles
Comment: Prepping operating table for universal health care
Bloomberg Comment: Covid boosted smoking, but is it tobacco’s last gasp?
Bloomberg Comment: Biden’s progressive policies get a turn at the serve
Bloomberg Comment: Of course the wealthy beoman capital gains tax hike
Op-ed by Sen. Keiser and Rep. Sells: Workers’ protections expanded during, after covid
Editorial: Seeking justice after the murder of George Floyd (Lovick)

High Country News
Supreme Court of Canada affirms trans-boundary Indigenous rights
The story of Stephen Vest’s killing and how wildfires intensify tragedy
Captured methane can address climate change and offset electricity costs

News Tribune (subscription required)
Puyallup church cancels conservative speaker event, cites potential threats
‘Perpetual debt.’ WA lawsuit targets court practice of sending unpaid fees to collections
East Pierce County animal shelter displaced by fire considers future as mobile clinic
Public outcry over Milton’s megachurch proposal sparks permit pause
Tacoma schools leadership to change in July as former district head takes on new role

Olympian (subscription required)
Thurston County reports 135 new COVID-19 cases over weekend
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
Legislature adopts 1,100-page budget and adjourns 2021 session (Ormsby, Rolfes, Robinson)
Here’s the new approach to drug possession the Legislature is sending to Gov. Inslee (Bateman)
Thurston County still grappling with Supreme Court drug possession ruling
Washington state lawmakers send capital gains tax bill to Gov. Inslee’s desk
Lacey council OKs equity commission members, but still needs to make it official

Peninsula Daily News
Jefferson County Commissioners: No pot grows in rural areas
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Health officials note increase in skipped second-dose appointments
Mass clinics wrap up
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day for Peninsula
POINT OF VIEW: Small businesses don’t need another tax

Puget Sound Business Journal
SBA sets opening date for Restaurant Revitalization Fund. Here’s when you can apply.
The Covid recovery labor shortage is intense. Experts say it will force businesses to raise wages.
SBA rolls out new $5B grant program for small businesses. Here’s who qualifies.
Alaska Airlines dedicates plane to equity in education with new livery

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Younger people are getting sicker from COVID, Washington state hospital leaders say
Washington state lawmakers keep new highways on cruise control (Hobbs)
Washington grew but not enough to get another House seat, census figures show
As Washington Legislature wraps up, lawmakers pass a new budget, capital gains tax and clean-fuels standard (Billig, Thai, Johnson)

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit County COVID-19 numbers continue to rise

Spokesman Review
After session marked by pandemic, Washington Legislature adjourns with final passage of $59 billion budget (Mullet, Billig, Rolfes)
Washington Democrats get major climate bills across legislative finish line before end of session (Carlyle, Fitzgibbon, Hobbs)
Capital gains tax heads to Inslee’s desk after passage in Washington Legislature (Robinson)
Supporters say equity training bill for schools in Washington has no link to critical race theory, but conservatives cry foul (Das, Hobbs)
Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccinations can resume in Washington state, Gov. Jay Inslee says
Released one day before voting deadline, proposed $59 billion Washington budget would use federal and rainy day funds (Rolfes, Ormsby)
Legislature passes $6.3 billion capital budget with funding for Eastern Washington universities, community projects (Riccelli)

Yakima Herald Republic
Be prepared for more big crowds at Washington’s campgrounds
Plenty of vaccines are available for farmworkers and Latino residents, but not everyone is getting them
Overtime bill for agricultural workers marks a historic change for workers and industry

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Why some Washington restaurants are facing a worker shortage
New tsunami maps show how water could reach Seattle, Everett, Tacoma after an earthquake
Mass COVID-19 vaccination site opens at the Tacoma Dome Tuesday
Seattle gets 50,000 more doses of COVID-19 vaccine this week
Washington families worry as COVID-19 ravages India

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
‘We want to beat this virus as quickly as possible.’ New mass-vax effort at Tacoma Dome
Summer camp is back, with COVID-19 safety guidelines
New sentences coming for 3rd-strikers convicted of burglary
Gov. Jay Inslee signs ban on Native American school mascots
Pop-up clinic set up to vaccinate hesitant African Americans

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Many vaccination appointments unfilled as new clinic begins at Tacoma Dome
COVID-19 cases increasing in Pierce County despite roll back to Phase 2
Amazon providing COVID shots to warehouse workers across Wash. state

KNKX FM
Native-themed school mascots on borrowed time in Washington state — unless nearby tribe approves (Lekanoff)
Washington Joins Oregon, California, British Columbia In Passing Low-Carbon Fuel Standard
It’s Complicated: Why Some Northwest Latinx Residents And Farmworkers Hesitate On COVID Vaccine
Big reforms coming to coroner, medical examiner offices in Washington
Expect fines, closures as B.C. restricts travel because of COVID cases
Taxes, police reform and environment. Washington legislators wrap ‘historic’ session (Taylor, Frame, Jinkins, Pederson)
After breach, Washington governor’s residence to get security upgrades
Wolf numbers continue to grow in Washington state, but still no hunting as in Idaho
Another gray whale stranding in Washington as unusual mortality event appears to persist

KUOW FM
Outcry over deadly police encounters fuels successful legislative push in Washington
Native-themed mascots on borrowed time in Washington (Lekanoff)
Pandemic blog: Covid-related updates for the Northwest
Did Emergency PPP Loans Work? Nearly $800 Billion Later, We Still Don’t Know
April 26 | A historic session for the Washington legislature

KXLY (ABC)
WA Legislature passes $59B two-year budget; How City of Spokane is putting that money to use (Billig, Ormsby, Riccelli)
Spokane Regional Health District to resume use of Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine
Washington judge blocks some virus rules on farms

Q13 TV (Fox)
COVID-19 hospitalizations on the rise in Washington, especially in young people
Mother who lost child to fentanyl poisoning creates innovative program to try to save lives
High number of homicides in Kent so far this year raises concern in community
SDOT: Injurious and fatal crashes remain despite pandemic effect on traffic

Web

The Hill
Democrats move to expand voting rights for felons (Simmons)

Slog
Washington Resumes Its War on Drugs, at Least for the Next Two Years (Dhingra, Goodman, Bateman)
No-Curb Streets Are Seattle’s Hottest Traffic Trend
Guest Editorial: The Legislature Must Do More for Low-Income Washingtonians than Funding the Working Families Tax Credit

Friday, April 23

New Law Will Help Protect The Rights Of Youth When Engaged by Police
State lawmakers recently took a major step in the right direction as it relates to protecting the rights of youth, as they passed a law that says Police officers must connect youth who are taken into custody with an attorney before conducting an interrogation or asking them to consent to a search.  Continue reading at The Seattle Medium.

Lawmakers OK tenants’ civil right to counsel bill. Will it be ready to stop an eviction cliff?
A bill signed by Gov. Jay Inslee on Thursday makes Washington the first state in the country to guarantee legal representation to low-income tenants facing eviction. Cities such as Philadelphia, New York, San Francisco, and Cleveland have passed similar laws in recent years, which require courts to appoint an attorney for any tenant earning less than 200% of the federal poverty level, but Washington is the first state to do so. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Ted S. Warren)

Child care proposal approved by Legislature, but capital gains tax to fund it still in negotiations
A broad legislative proposal that aims to address child care shortages and prices across the state passed the Legislature on Thursday. The House and Senate concurred with changes made in a conference committee, sending the proposal to Gov. Jay Inslee’s desk for his signature. The bill creates a new funding account for child care and early learning. Continue reading at The Spokesman Review. (Rachel La Corte)

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Associated Press
Bill to prevent and fight wildfires approved by Legislature (Springer)
Legislature: Elected officials must OK tear gas use by cops (Pedersen, Johnson)
Gov. Inslee: WA has entered 4th surge of COVID-19
Senate and House to enter negotiations on capital gains tax
COVID-19 hospitalizations tumble among US senior citizens
Legislature approves bill upping recycled content in plastic
US health panel reviewing J&J vaccine pause over rare blood clots

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Lawmakers OK tenants’ civil right to counsel bill. Will it be ready to stop an eviction cliff? (Kuderer)
Watch: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee spoke on COVID-19 on Thursday (April 22)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Whatcom sees 42 confirmed COVID cases Thursday, as Bellingham schools report new incident
First confirmed case of more transmissible P.1 (Brazil) variant found in Whatcom County
Whatcom County sees 39 new confirmed COVID cases reported by state Wednesday
While most of Whatcom sees decreased COVID infection rates, 2 regions show big growth
Gov. Inslee: Pierce County is getting 100% of its COVID-19 vaccine share
Will Moderna COVID vaccine need a third dose? Here’s what we know so far
COVID long-haulers at higher risk of developing fatal illnesses months later, study says
Coronavirus weekly need-to-know: Vaccine failure, outdoor masks, flushing toilets & more
Flushing toilets can launch poopy droplets, but do they spread COVID? Study adds data
Opinion: ‘An American court did right by an African-American man. For a change’ | Opinion

Capital Press
Idaho Senate OKs bill to kill up to 90% of wolves in state

Columbian
Cleveland takes wait-and-see stance on capital gains tax vote (Cleveland, Jinkins)
In Our View: Teachers have had to rethink the fundamentals

The Daily News
COVID-19 outbreak at WestRock infects at least 10 employees, 1 has died

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
New round of immigrant aid fund opens in Washington

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Cornfield Report: A forecast on carbon and capital gains, plus a tear-gas deal (Billig)
Marysville teachers vote ‘no confidence’ in their school board
Odors are a concern if Stanwood composting operation expands
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Commentary: Aviation jobs need skilled workers trained here
WaPo Comment: What keeps officials from reaching climate solutions
Op-ed: What troop pullout means for U.S. global security

High Country News
The essential — and dangerous — work prisoners do

News Tribune (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Editorial: Showing some spine: On capital gains tax, two Pierce County Democrats break ranks

New York Times
Live Updates: Biden and World Leaders Focus on Innovation for ‘Clean Energy Future’
Bill Gates Pushes for Better Climate Technology
The White House warns that the U.S. lags behind China on developing clean technologies.
Republicans Look to Slash the Size of Biden’s Infrastructure Plan
Biden administration withdraws Trump-era proposal restricting transgender people in homeless shelters.
Senate Passes Anti-Asian Hate Bill

Olympian (subscription required)
Lawmakers OK tenants’ civil right to counsel bill. Will it be ready to stop an eviction cliff? (Kuderer)
Lacey City Council expresses frustration over narrow role in land-use process
Thurston County will appoint 9th Superior Court judge by November
Gov. Inslee: Pierce County is getting 100% of its COVID-19 vaccine share
Thurston County reports 33 COVID-19 cases on Thursday

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
OMC at ‘high census’ because of hospitalizations elsewhere

Puget Sound Business Journal
Urgent care operators eye new markets, rapid growth in post-pandemic economy
Regional transit agencies are getting $580M in federal relief. Here’s who gets what.
Opinion: Sustainable invests are smart investments
Opinion: It’s time to acknowledge anti-Asian harm in the workplace
Opinion: It’s time to remove restrictions on electric vehicle sales in Washington

Seattle Medium
New Law Will Help Protect The Rights Of Youth When Engaged by Police (Johnson, Darneille, Dhingra)
Law Requires On-Site Points Of Contact For Students In Foster Care (Nobles)
Jayapal and Sanders Introduce College For All Act To Make College Tuition-Free
Durkan Announces New Walk-In Vaccinations At Rainier Beach And West Seattle

Seattle Times (subscription required)
‘It’s devastating’: As a QFC store winds down, neighbors and politicians thank employees, criticize closure
Advocates push Washington state lawmakers to spend more on transit, pedestrian projects (Hobbs)
Inslee: Washington has entered its fourth wave of COVID-19
Opinion: Fund behavioral-health providers essential to our COVID-19 recovery
Many homeless people in Seattle have yet to get even one stimulus check, and the clock is ticking
Washington is 7th most ‘catfished’ state, losing $14M to romance scammers last year
Editorial: State drug law needs an urgent compromise repair (Goodman)

South Seattle Emerald
House passes capital gains tax with amendment to keep referendum off ballot (Frame, Hackney, Billig, Hobbs)
State in fourth wave in COVID-19, vaccination sites open in south king county
Opinion: State bill raising age for juvenile prosecution would make Seattle safer
Opinion: Who can afford the American dream?

Spokesman Review
Child care proposal approved by Legislature, but capital gains tax to fund it still in negotiations (Wilson)
Legislature unanimously approves bill to increase wildfire fighting capabilities, forest health funding (Springer)
Spokane Public Schools students can bring two guests to this year’s graduation at Riverfront Park Pavilion
COVID-19 hospitalizations increase in Spokane County and state
Washington lawmakers reach deal that would restrict use of tear gas unless elected officials OK it (Johnson, Entenman)
Gonzaga launches new academic center to address regional climate change issues: ‘The problem is so urgent and so big’
Rising COVID-19 cases could mean older students have to wait to return to SPS classrooms

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities bicyclist dies after collision in busy south Richland intersection
New COVID cases, hospitalized patients and positive test results all higher in Tri-Cities
Quadriplegic sues 8 Tri-Cities businesses with what chamber calls ‘drive-by lawsuits’
Tri-Cities woman suspected of driving drunk when she hit a pole going 100 mph
More contagious, possibly more deadly variant of COVID found in Tri-Cities
Walla Walla man admits to assaulting Providence St. Mary Medical Center staff
Officer seriously injured by inmate at Washington State Penitentiary
Walla Walla students’ mental health app and AI idea wins State of Innovation Challenge award

Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber
Editorial: Only Change Can Bring Justice

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Verdict in George Floyd’s murder is “accountability,” Walla Walla activists say
Officer seriously injured by inmate at Washington State Penitentiary
Walla Walla students’ mental health app and AI idea wins State of Innovation Challenge award

Washington Post
Most Americans support greater scrutiny of police as discrimination concerns persist, Post-ABC poll finds
Opinion: Everyone is tired. We need to give ourselves an actual break.
After a Black man’s death, a D.C. street agonizes over the future of policing

Whidbey News-Times
Port considers tax that could raise up to $7.5 million
Coupeville students on new schedule as of April 12

Yakima Herald Republic
Biden taps Montana environmentalist for US public lands boss
Gov. Inslee: WA has entered 4th surge of COVID-19
Senate and House to enter negotiations on capital gains tax
Bill to prevent and fight wildfires approved by Legislature (Springer)
Army Corps of Engineers crew visits Yakima for flood response training

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
COVID-19 immunity not yet high enough to combat virus levels in Washington
Pregnant women with COVID-19 at higher risk for death, UW study finds
King County risks phase rollback as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations rise
‘Find A COVID Shot WA’ group prioritizing minority access to vaccines
Pierce County works to dispel vaccine hesitancy as vaccinations slow down

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
King County health officials: People should avoid ‘unusual’ COVID-19 testing operations
Senate and House to enter negotiations on capital gains tax
Styrofoam Sendoff: Washington lawmakers pass pollution bill, ban foam food packaging
More women than men are fully vaccinated in WA
Bill to prevent and fight wildfires approved by Legislature (Springer)
Local leaders, families address gun violence in Seattle
Airlines waiting for word from Boeing on fixing Max planes
Lawmakers examine police encounters with people with mental illnesses
Tacoma bans use of fossil fuels in new city buildings. Are commercial, residential next?
With removal of Pier 58 complete, Seattle continues plan for new park and playground

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Thousands of COVID vaccine appointments available this week at South King Co. sites
Oregon woman dies after getting J&J vaccine, state health officials say
‘It’s frustrating’: Over 100 Boeing Max jets still grounded over electrical issue
US drop in vaccine demand has some places turning down doses
Gov. Inslee: WA has entered 4th surge of COVID-19
Thousands of COVID vaccine appointments available this week at South King Co. sites
Families say their loved ones are being forgotten amid the gun violence
Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan critical of homelessness response after encampment shooting

KUOW FM
Blog: Pandemic news for the NW

NW Public Radio
Governor And Health Officials Warn Of Possible 4th Wave Of COVID Cases In Washington

Oregon Public Broadcasting
Washington citizens to wield more power in police shooting investigations (Entenman)

Q13 TV (Fox)
Health officials warn community of ‘unusual COVID testing operations’
COVID-19 hospitalizations tumble among US senior citizens
Washington lawmakers consider $80 diaper stipend for families in need

Web

Crosscut
Why new taxes are likely even as Washington is flush with cash (Frame, Rolfes, Nguyen)
For WA wildlife and spaces in danger, one woman paddles to the rescue

Edmonds Beacon
Paull Shin: ‘He embodied the American Dream’ (Liias, Peterson, Ryu)

MyNorthwest
State confirms Pierce County is getting fair share of vaccine doses
University District bar suing NHL’s Seattle Kraken
Gov. Inslee: Proposed capital gains tax is ‘a very reasonable proposal’
‘This is bad news for us’: Gov. Inslee expresses concerns over beginning of fourth wave
Bill to offset unemployment insurance spike with state funds passes House, Senate
Kshama Sawant voices support for renaming Seattle street named for controversial pro-slavery lawmaker
NOAA unveils ambitious five-year plan to save Puget Sound’s struggling orcas
State BLM group calls on FBI to open investigation into Pierce County Sheriff
King County could be first in nation to ban government use of facial recognition technology
Man and woman shot at South Park encampment, suspect fled’
Dogs in Washington show evidence of exposure to COVID-19
Sen. Murray reintroduces child care act to help providers, families
DOH says no early Phase 2 rollbacks planned for counties with high numbers

Slog
Portland Police Radio Dispatches Detail Moments Leading Up to Robert Delgado’s Death by Cop

Thursday, April 22

Washington state House approves capital gains tax bill, sends it back to Senate
The Washington state House of Representatives approved a bill to impose a tax on capital gains from the sale and exchange of assets such as stocks and bonds with four days remaining in the 105-day legislative session. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Steve Bloom)

Bill requiring schools to provide free menstrual products heads to Inslee’s desk
A bill that would require both public and private schools to provide free menstrual products to students could soon become law. House Bill 1273 has passed both the Washington House and Senate. The bill 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.

Legislature OK’s bill easing decertification of police
A measure described as the teeth of the Washington state Legislature’s ambitious police accountability agenda is headed to Gov. Jay Inslee’s desk. The state Senate on Wednesday gave final approval to a bill that makes it easier to decertify police for bad acts, a day after an ex-Minneapolis officer was convicted of murdering George Floyd. The Democrat-led Senate voted 27-22 to concur with changes made in the House, including some that increased transparency related to officer discipline. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald.

Print

Associated Press
Legislature OK’s bill easing decertification of police
Justices stand by ruling striking down drug possession law
Vaccine demand down in parts of Washington state, cases rise
Nuclear waste structures in Washington state are stabilized
US jobless claims fall to 547,000, another pandemic low
Idaho Senate OKs bill to kill up to 90% of wolves in state
Washington state House approves new tax on capital gains (Frame, Billig)

Aberdeen Daily World
Two commissioners say ‘no’ to low barrier shelter
Op-ed: The Chauvin verdict alone isn’t enough for real progress

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Washington state House approves capital gains tax bill (Rule, Paul, Leavitt, Bronoske, Chapman, Frame, Thai, Hobbs, Jinkins)
College at no cost? Here’s who could get tuition-free education under proposed bill
While most of Whatcom sees decreased COVID infection rates, 2 regions show big growth
Here’s what wildfire smoke has done to Bellingham’s air quality
State sets new daily vaccine goal as COVID-19 cases surge across Washington
Whatcom sees 34 new COVID cases but expecting an increase of 1,740 vaccine doses this week
Whatcom vaccine clinics offer 1,680 first doses of Moderna, and this is how to get one
Studies: Renewable electricity can slash Cascadia pollution
Paid time off for COVID vaccinations encouraged under Biden tax credit. What to know

Capital Press
Washington farm groups gain concessions on housing rules
Judge’s grazing ruling favors Washington sheep ranch

Columbian
Longtime Clark County legislator Albert ‘Al’ Bauer dies at 92
Clark County reports 71 new confirmed, probable cases as case rate rises
In Our View: Care for planet on Earth Day and beyond

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Prepare for busy camping areas in Washington
Collection of more than 10,000 photographs shows the life of farmers in the Yakima Valley
Yakima County surpasses 30,000 cumulative COVID-19 cases

Everett Herald (subscription required)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: Most Americans would be OK with packing the court
WaPo Comment: Dropping masks may be as hard as they were to accept
Comment: Clean fuel standard can aid climate, health and jobs
Comment: U.S. electric power halfway to zero carbon emissions

The Facts Newspaper
Disaster cash assistance available again for some Washingtonians beginning April 19
COVID-19 Vaccination Pop-Up in the Central District

High Country News
So you want to acknowledge the land?

The Inlander
Washington looks to complete the recycling loop – in the state and demand that companies do more
How experts say we can apply – lessons from the pandemic – to the climate crisis
When the pandemic’s past, will we mend our real-life communities or keep up the social media brawling?

International Examiner
Theatre Off Jackson in Chinatown-International District seeks community input to guide its future renovations

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
New South Kitsap COVID-19 vaccination site opening this week, OC offers weekend clinic
Opinion: Legislature needs to fund expanded and elevated highway in Gorst (Randall)

News Tribune (subscription required)
Tacoma bans use of fossil fuels in new city buildings. Are commercial, residential next?
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Pierce County boosts vaccine rollout with six-week T-Dome event, new Lakewood clinic
Editorial: George Floyd verdict shows urgency as Manuel Ellis family, Tacoma wait … and wait

New York Times
Live Updates: Biden, Kicking Off Summit, Says U.S. ‘Has Resolved to Take Action’ on Climate Change
Climate Change Could Cut World Economy by $23 Trillion in 2050, Insurance Giant Warns
Biden Set to Raise Taxes on Rich to Fund Child Care and Education
The Flu Vanished During Covid. What Will Its Return Look Like?
Chauvin Verdict Brings the Police Relief and Some Resentment
Senate Republicans Shun Earmarks, Embracing Spending Restraint Anew

Olympian (subscription required)
Washington state House approves capital gains tax bill (Rule, Paul, Leavitt, Bronoske, Chapman, Frame, Thai, Hobbs)
North Thurston ‘concerned educators’ upset that comments about race not read at meeting
Thurston County reports 31 COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, increasing total to 8,420
Air Force training brings increase in air traffic to South Sound
State sets new daily vaccine goal as COVID-19 cases surge across Washington

Peninsula Daily News
Hazard pay voted down in split Port Angeles City Council vote
Sheriffs, chiefs side with Chauvin jury
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance

Port Townsend Leader
COVID-19 claims third life in JeffCo
COVID-19 vaccine clinic returns to Chimacum

Puget Sound Business Journal
Washington collected $469M from pot sales in 2020. Here’s how it ranks nationwide.
Washington state increases vaccination goal to 90,000 shots a day

Runta News
COVID-19 Vaccination Pop-Up in the Central District

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Space-junk sleuths track to Eastern Washington the rocket chunks that lit up the sky in March
Bye-bye Styrofoam coolers: New Washington state law to ban sales of some plastic, require more recycled content in others (Das)
Legislature OK’s bill easing decertification of police
‘Humongous stress’ paying for diapers: Washington lawmakers consider $80 monthly stipend (Senn, Nguyen)
Washington House approves new tax on capital gains as fight brews over a referendum (Frame, Billig)
Boeing, Microsoft and Amazon among big donors to Biden’s inauguration
Opinion: To honor Chief Seattle, care for the Earth and all its creatures

Skagit Valley Herald
County partners with Children’s Museum to open play area at vaccine site
Skagit Transit board debates whether to accept COVID relief funding
Skagit County gains 1,000 jobs in March; unemployment rate falls

South Seattle Emerald
Opinion: Community members and advocates achieved a big victory for inclusive cash support
Auburn votes to criminalize camping on public property
As COVID-19 variants spread in state, Seattle adds walk-up vaccines for ages 60+
Washington Ethnic Studies Now’s third annual assembly to take place April 24
News Gleams: How to find a COVID-19 vaccine, Earth Week events, & more!
Opinion: Today’s ruling was a victory — tomorrow the fight continues
Local leaders and organizations respond to guilty ruling in murder of George Floyd
Judge dismisses all Seattle Public School Board recall charges

Spokesman Review
Spokane police union stymied review of 2020 protests spurred by death of George Floyd
Earth Day 2021: After COVID-19 derailed efforts to reduce plastic waste, will they move forward again?
Gonzaga University community reflects on Chauvin verdict: ‘We have work to do’
Washington Supreme Court won’t reconsider ruling decriminalizing simple drug possession
Washington House passes capital gains tax, the furthest such a proposal has ever gotten in the state (Frame, Billig)
Spokane School Board signals support for downtown stadium, but delays final vote

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities leader of notorious Sinaloa drug cartel cell heading to federal prison
Tri-Cities COVID cases climb in both counties. 65 new cases Wednesday
Tri-Cities and Seattle get F’s for air quality. They have the same problem
‘Feeding frenzy.’ Tri-Cities strained housing market nears crisis point

Vancouver Business Journal
Working together to replace the Interstate Bridge

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Valley Versus the Virus: Umatilla County officials frustrated with rising cases, vaccination hold-outs
Walla Walla man allegedly steals phone, credit cards; arrested en route to Tri-Cities
Man appears in Walla Walla court for allegedly carrying 78 fentanyl pills
Prescott woman pleads guilty to stealing whiskey, identity
COVID-19 the Numbers: Oregon reports 27% increase in daily cases

Yakima Herald Republic
In the Yakima Valley, hope that Chauvin verdict “will help us turn a corner”
Some farmworker housing rules lifted, as debate continues over coronavirus restrictions
Wildfire season could get ugly again in Yakima and statewide
Former Washington GOP gubernatorial candidate Loren Culp files to challenge Republican Rep. Dan Newhouse
Washington COVID relief fund for immigrants opens new round of help
Washington House approves new tax on capital gains (Frame, Billig)

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
After Chauvin verdict, Washington cousin of George Floyd calls for more police accountability
Capital gains tax proposal passes Washington House, heads back to Senate (Harris-Talley, Frame, Billig)
South Seattle pharmacy tackles cultural barriers to get communities of color vaccinated
Seattle City Council aims to use new vehicle license fee to help pay for bridge maintenance
More supply of COVID-19 vaccines needed to increase weekly vaccination rate in Washington state
Washington lawmakers OK proposal easing decertification of law enforcement officers

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Walk-in vaccines available to anyone 60 and over who lives or works in King County
Mass vaccination site opening at Tacoma Dome for six weeks
COVID-19 cases climb as people gather without masks
Amazon begins rollout of pay-by-palm at Whole Foods in Seattle
King County could be first in nation to ban government use of facial recognition technology
Washington House approves new tax on capital gains (Frame, Billig)

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Police reform measures mount in Washington state after deaths of those in police custody (Goodman, Entenman)
Anyone 60 or over to get vaccine without appointment at two King County sites
City leaders all-in for police body cameras in Bremerton
State health experts: Washington seeing beginning of 4th wave of COVID-19 cases
Lewis & Clark College to require COVID student vaccinations
Studies: Renewable electricity can slash Cascadia pollution
Vaccine demand dropping: Some feel ‘there’s no rush,’ says doctor

KNKX FM
After lengthy debate, Washington House passes capital gains tax (Frame, Billig)
Tacoma Dome will be mass vaccination site for six weeks

KUOW FM
Washington families of people killed by police react to Chauvin verdict
Here comes wildfire season in the Northwest. What to know looking ahead
Blog: Pandemic news for the NW
At Climate Summit, Biden Stresses U.S. Commitment And Economic Opportunity
What Does Vaccine Inequality Look Like? See Chart
State Foster Care Agencies Take Millions Of Dollars Owed To Children In Their Care
WA police accountability measures and the Chauvin trial decision
After lengthy debate, Washington House passes capital gains tax (Frame, Billig)

KXLY (ABC)
Washington pushes for 90,000 daily vaccinations as younger people drive up COVID-19 infections
Bill requiring schools to provide free menstrual products heads to Inslee’s desk

Q13 TV (Fox)
Reflections from the frontlines: A look inside the local ICU that treated the nation’s first COVID-19 outbreak
Snohomish County health officials warn kids sports are spreading COVID-19

Web

Crosscut
5 times WA lawmakers failed at working remotely in 2021 (Sells, Hackney, Hansen, Shewmake, Frame, Saldaña)
WA still holds teens in solitary confinement — and worse, suit says
Black families at Seattle Children’s face security at double the rate of white families

MyNorthwest
Dogs in Washington show evidence of exposure to COVID-19
Sen. Murray reintroduces child care act to help providers, families
DOH says no early Phase 2 rollbacks planned for counties with high numbers
Capital gains tax inches closer to passage in Washington, but still faces final hurdle
Seattle leaders propose millions in spending for COVID recovery, aging bridges
North Seattle building on ‘fire watch’ after Wednesday blaze
Tacoma bar fined again for COVID-19 violations
Canceled and alternate local events in spring, summer 2021
Seafair to go virtual again in 2021 over ‘challenges with social distancing requirements’

Slog
Washington Is Coming Very Close to Taxing the Rich Eventually, Probably, Depending on a Few Things (Bronoske, Chapman, Leavitt, Paul, Rule, Hobbs, Senn, Billig, Van de Wege)

West Seattle Blog
VACCINATIONS: City confirms West Seattle hub welcomes 60+ without appointments – and ‘Good Neighbors’ too

Wednesday, April 21

The Chauvin verdict is simply justice. Why are we celebrating it?
Despite the explosion of honking horns near my workspace following Judge Peter Cahill’s reading of guilty on all counts, relief was the only thing that came over me. It was the reprieve that comes when a knee crushing down on your neck is finally removed, allowing you to gasp air that should never have been so hard to inhale in the first place. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Julio Cortez)

Legislature approves duty to intervene police reform bill
The Washington Legislature on Tuesday approved a measure requiring police to intervene if they see a fellow officer using, or attempting to use, excessive force. On a 31-18 vote, the Senate concurred with changes the made in the House to the bill, which was prompted by the Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd and ensuing Black Lives Matter protests last year. The measure now heads to Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee for his signature. Continue reading at KNKX. (Ted S. Warren)

Lawmakers pass bill to protect right to medical care for transgender residents
Washington state lawmakers on Monday approved a bill to prevent health insurers from denying coverage for gender affirming treatment, drawing a stark contrast with other state legislatures currently considering anti-transgender legislation. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Rachel La Corte)