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Tuesday, May 18

New laws aim to keep people from losing their homes in Washington
When Carol Porter filed for bankruptcy in 2015, she didn’t expect she would lose her Issaquah home in the process. That’s because, for more than a century, Washington law has contained language to protect people’s homes from being sold to pay off their debts. But the law hasn’t kept up with the state’s rising home prices. As a result, only $125,000 of the equity of Porter’s home was off-limits from her creditors — an amount far shy of what the property was worth. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Dorothy Edwards)

Inslee signs ambitious environmental protection laws
Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee signed a series of bills Monday designed to strengthen the environment in Washington state. Inslee signed the Climate Commitment Act, environmental justice legislation, a clean fuels standard and bills related to reducing Washington’s single-use plastic waste and hydrofluorocarbon pollution. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Ted S. Warren)

New law expected to have widespread effect
Recycling and environmentally focused groups are hailing a new state law as groundbreaking when it comes to reducing the amount of plastics entering the solid waste system and, too often, the oceans. Gov. Jay Inslee signed the law, Senate Bill 5022, on Monday. Over the next several years, the law will ban certain polystyrene products — such as common foam takeout containers — and sets statewide minimums for the amount of recycled material to be used in the manufacture of plastic items, from beverage bottles to trash bags. Continue reading at The Skagit Valley Herald.

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Associated Press
Inslee signs ambitious environmental protection laws (Das, Carlyle)
Prison group sues to keep immigrant detention center open
Prosecutor says deputies justified in shooting of Black man
Fauci says pandemic exposed ‘undeniable effects of racism’
Officials: invasive green crabs spreading along coast
California will stay masked for another month
Nigerian man arrested in Washington unemployment fraud case
Biden to spotlight electric vehicle future he sees for US
New Washington state law makes drug possession a misdemeanor

Aberdeen Daily World
Recent COVID-19 case surge appears to be countywide

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
This big federal grant could lead to more permanent aviation jobs at Bellingham’s airport
Whatcom’s COVID cases and hospitalizations slowed last week, but schools report incidents
COVID relief continues: Here’s how parents can get a monthly tax payment this summer
Is it a HIPAA violation if businesses request proof of COVID vaccine? What experts say

Capital Press
Snake River flows increased to support juvenile salmon migration
Lower USDA wheat projections reflect lack of rain in Northwest

Columbian
Safe By Summer asks Clark County employers to aim for 80% vaccinated
Clark County reports 294 new COVID-19 cases, one death
In Our View: Fully reopening schools in fall important step

The Daily News
Longview adds $170,000 in mortgage payments to plan for low-income rental assistance

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Well owners in the Lower Valley will be able to participate in tests to detect nitrates

Everett Herald (subscription required)
3. Aftermath: Infrastructure won’t fare well in a big quake
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: Pediatrician answers 7 questions about vaccinating kids
Many experts say to keep masks on, contrary to CDC ruling
Harrop: 2020, in terms of stats, was the year of the asterisk
WaPo Comment: Why it matters when women, minorities hired to lead
Letter: Better controls on health insurance are needed
Letter: Support for 988 suicide hotline needed in state

The Inlander
Deputize Costco sample ladies, and 19 other wild ideas to get more people vaccinated

News Tribune (subscription required)
Electric scooters return to Tacoma streets soon. They’ll look a bit different
Pierce County starts week with fewer than 100 new COVID-19 cases, no new deaths
Here’s some good news for people who have overdue materials at a Tacoma public library
Op-Ed: Guaranteed income for 100 struggling families will turn Tacoma into GRIT city

New York Times
The Pandemic Created a Child-Care Crisis. Mothers Bore the Burden.
Covid Live Updates: U.S. Help Is Falling Short in Global Vaccine Drive, Experts Say
What to Save? Climate Change Forces Brutal Choices at National Parks.
Hackers and Climate Change Threaten U.S. Energy Independence
Nations Must Drop Fossil Fuels, Fast, World Energy Body Warns

North American Post
Nisei Veterans Stamp!

Olympian (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
There’s been an arrest in the massive pandemic unemployment fraud against WA state
Expect to hear extra noise from JBLM this week as soldiers conduct training
COVID relief continues: Here’s how parents can get a monthly tax payment this summer

Peninsula Daily News
Clallam County Public Utility District gets perfect score in national review
Jefferson Public Utility District to hear study on rates
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Clallam County death 13th recorded on Olympic Peninsula

Port Townsend Leader
Jefferson County wants to buy 14 acres in Port Townsend for homeless housing

Puget Sound Business Journal
Google leads Big Tech fight for spouses of skilled immigrant workers
Covid-19 spurred a record number of new businesses. Will 2021 bring a record number of failures?
UW mass timber classroom building on track to finish in 2022
Mask policies at Seattle businesses are all over the map
Experts say a ‘turnover tsunami’ could be on the horizon as pandemic uncertainty subsides

Runta News
Talaalka ayaa Dhammaanteen Ina Kulmiya!

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Washington to get emergency housing vouchers for homelessness relief from federal government
Child Tax Credit monthly payments to begin rolling out July 15. Here’s what parents need to know
Seattle extends free outdoor-dining permits to restaurants through May 2022; will patio dining become a staple?
Mount St. Helens, which erupted 41 years ago, starts reopening after COVID closures
Inslee signs climate bills, but vetoes parts that tie them to passage of a transportation package (Jinkins, Billig, Mullet, Carlyle, Hobbs)
Editorial: Washington protects the little guy from bullying by lawsuit (Pedersen)

Skagit Valley Herald
New law expected to have widespread effect (Lovelett)
Cascades Job Corps Center with new security and protective services program
New COVID-19 cases same as for previous week

South Seattle Emerald
More wildfires in western Washington spur increased firefighting funding and training
Opinion: Women and non-binary faculty of color are vulnerable one year into pandemic
“The knives come out”: The uphill battle for oversight in King County
Opinion: The Palestinian uprisings in Jerusalem hit close to home in Seattle
Weekend Long Reads: The climate ‘new normal’
Participatory budgeting ‘clearly delayed until next year’

Spokesman Review
It’s time to make sure your phone will get Washington’s new ShakeAlert early earthquake warnings
Spokane County, city will have to reach agreement in dispatch feud, according to bill signed by Inslee (Riccelli)
Protection orders are meant to keep domestic violence victims safe, but that doesn’t always happen
Seattle Times: Nigerian man who allegedly participated in scam stealing $650M from Washington state arrested in New York

Washington Post
‘Our democracy is imperiled’: Maricopa County officials decry 2020 recount as a sham and call on Arizona Republicans to end the process
Israeli airstrikes pound Gaza despite cease-fire calls as clashes erupt in the West Bank

Yakima Herald Republic
State-funded Miller Park improvements set to start this summer
Washington restaurants, breweries and wineries can offer one no-charge drink to vaccinated customers
New COVID-19 cases in Yakima County were at 28 Saturday, 14 Sunday, 11 Monday; no new deaths
Vaccine clinics planned Tuesday and Wednesday in the Yakima Valley
Bloomberg Column: The CDC’s new mask rules leave kids out. Here’s how to fix that
Opinion: Yakima County Care Campus offers realistic hope for the homeless
Letter: Keep things safe as we reopen — get the vaccine

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Seattle gyms adjust to new CDC mask guidance
King County could implement stricter mask guidelines, despite recent rollbacks
Washington tribe’s tsunami tower could become model for the nation
Inslee signs ambitious environmental protection laws for Washington state (Mullet, Jinkins)
Some Washington businesses can give fully vaccinated people a free drink

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
All Washington counties now in phase 3 as state moves toward reopening
WA liquor board announces businesses can offer free drink for vaccinated
Seattle man charged with making false statements during gun buys
Gov. Inslee signs ambitious environmental protection laws
‘This is an awesome first step’: FBI makes first arrest in massive WA unemployment fraud case
Tesla in autopilot mode hits Snohomish County deputy’s SUV
Seattle Fire Department holding vaccine clinics at local schools
State moratorium on utility disconnects ending soon, shut-offs resuming in July

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
More businesses, venues allow fully vaccinated people to not wear a mask
All counties back in Phase 3 as COVID restrictions ease statewide
Protester heckles Gov. Inslee during bill signing ceremony in Shoreline
Local health officials question CDC guidance on mask usage for fully vaccinated people
Washington healthcare workers get ready to help coronavirus patients in India
King County courthouse staff quitting, blame safety issues at homeless camp

KNKX FM
Inslee signing HEAL Act to ensure environmental justice in WA

KREM
Washington launching 988 hotline for mental health emergencies (Orwall)

KUOW FM
So when do I need to mask up? Confusing guideline changes clarified
Pandemic blog: Updates for Washington state
The Case For Universal Pre-K Just Got Stronger

KXLY (ABC)
Sports betting legalization presents new opportunities for local casinos

NW Public Radio
80% Of Asian Americans Say They Are Discriminated Against

Q13 TV (Fox)
Pierce County returns to Phase 3
Gun violence on the rise in Seattle
Monthly child tax credit payments to begin July 15, officials say
Store mask policies: Target, CVS, Starbucks, Costco say masks optional for vaccinated customers
Family petitions for ‘Zack’s Law’ to prevent cold water drowning in Washington

Web

Clark County Today
Letter: Legislature’s budget ensures greater access to cash for Washingtonians with low incomes

Crosscut
New laws aim to keep people from losing their homes in Washington (Macri)

Slog
Washington’s New Recycling Rules Became Law at the Seattle Aquarium Today (Das)
It Cost the City $14,000 to Remove SPD’s East Precinct Fortress
A Review of Seattle’s New Light Rail Trains

Western Front
Western receives generous funding from the state but takes losses in other areas

Monday, May 17

Keep up with the hundreds of bills Gov. Inslee has signed
In the past week, Gov. Inslee signed 113 bills into state law. Some of those were partially vetoed, but only 11. The types of legislation recently adopted runs a wide range, from noxious weeds and fertilizer fees to juvenile rehabilitation and improving involuntary commitment laws. While 113 sounds like a lot, it’s not even half. He’s signed 310 bills into law since Feb. 8. Continue reading at MyNorthwest. (The Office of the Governor)

Decision expected by May 27 on whether officers will be charged in Manuel Ellis’ death
It’s been more than a year since Manuel Ellis was killed by Tacoma police and six months since the Washington State Patrol concluded its investigation into his death. Now, a highly anticipated charging decision is expected to come out of the state Attorney General’s Office in the coming weeks. Continue reading at KNKX. (Parker MIles Blohm)

Washington state expands ‘good Samaritan’ law to protect volunteers in emergencies, disasters
Washington state has expanded its “good Samaritan” law to protect volunteers who help others during emergencies or natural disasters. House Bill 1209, sponsored by Rep. Dan Bronoske, D-Lakewood, passed both chambers of the Legislature this session with unanimous bipartisan support. Gov. Jay Inslee signed it into law April 16. It will take effect July 25. Continue reading at The Walla Walla Union-Bulletin. (Ted S. Warren)

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Associated Press
Vancouver principal resigns amid racist language accusations
Inslee sets June 30 target for Washington to fully reopen
Numbers of stoned drivers increase, law enforcement responds
Coast Guard looks to expand Seattle base
Call center in Vancouver shuttered due to COVID-19 outbreak
CDC director says mask turnaround based solely on science
State again removing tons of toxic debris from Camano Island
Second Amendment sanctuaries facing 1st court test in Oregon
Supreme Court to weigh rollback of abortion rights
Nigerian arrested in Washington unemployment fraud case
6th Washington state man charged in U.S. Capitol breach case

Aberdeen Daily World
Grays Harbor County total COVID-19 case count surpasses 4,000
GH Transit wants to boost service, but is in need of drivers
Walsh-sponsored funding will bring $900,000 for transitional housing

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Whatcom doctor says those choosing not to get vaccinated ‘playing with fire’
U.S.-Canada border reopening soon? Trudeau says ‘there is hope’ for a ‘better summer’
Whatcom’s numbers remain high with 56 new COVID cases, 5 hospitalizations Friday
Whatcom Health monitors COVID outbreak in which 21 residents, employees test positive
Whatcom sees 2 COVID-related deaths on same day positive news comes from CDC and state
Welcome back to Phase 3 of COVID reopening. What it means for WA bars and restaurants
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Friday in Washington state

Capital Press
Judges dismiss Cow Palace suit against EPA
Farm groups ask Inslee to repeal housing rules
Inslee, Murray on Simpson plan: More work necessary

Everett Herald (subscription required)
1. Buried danger: A slumbering geologic fault beneath us
2. Built on pudding: Can modern quake engineering prevail?
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Fueled by vaccines, a return to normal is getting closer
Riverfront construction could start soon — without a cinema
Students lead charge as Langley council takes climate action
E-bikes are booming, whether or not we’re ready
Viewpoints: Nature priceless, but it should have a price
Comment: Medicare for All could have saved lives during covid
Comment: Covid is refuting the case for Medicare for All
Muhlstein: Vaccine approval for kids a reminder of 2009 H1N1 outbreak
Bloomberg Comment: Pandemic relief hasn’t reach everyone who needs it
Bloomberg Comment: $6 trillion’s a lot of money; here’s why it’s a bargain
Bloomberg Comment: Cheney’s fate meant as a warning to others in GOP
WaPo Comment: It’s not jobless benefits that keep workers at home
WaPo Comment: Cyberattacks affect more than just big corporations
Wapo Comment: In ousting Cheney, meaning of ‘RINO’ has flipped
WaPo Comment: Anti-trans laws using tested ‘save the kids’ rhetoric
Editorial: Get shovels ready for Biden’s transportation plans
Editorial: Parents have decision to make on vaccinating kids
Editorial: For 75 years a safe place to hang out and more
Letter: Support for 988 suicide hotline needed in state
Letter: Does GOP require belief in Trump’s lies?

High Country News
A parched West heads into fire season
Where land use and landscape photography converge

International Examiner
Activists demand hate crime charge for murder of Asian man in Bothell

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Letter to Editor: Renters should be part of economic recovery plans

News Tribune (subscription required)
Here’s the proposed new name for Jason Lee Middle School in Tacoma
Tiny home village for homeless veterans opens in Pierce County
4.3-mile trail is ‘transformational’ for Tacoma’s Eastside — and it’s finally complete
Want to increase vaccination rates in Tacoma and Pierce County? Two words: free stuff
Inmate lawsuit claims vaccine rollout at Purdy and other prisons is too slow
Editorial: Bicyclist-driver friction persists on Tacoma-Seattle roads. Here’s how to relieve it

New York Times
Covid Live Updates: Where Virus Surged in Northeast U.S., Cases Fall as Shots Rise
Rural Areas Are Looking for Workers. They Need Broadband to Get Them.
Federal Mask Retreat Sets Off Confusing Scramble for States and Cities
The Biden administration will begin making monthly child tax credit payments in July.

Olympian (subscription required)
Tumwater and Old Highway 99 farmer square off over roosters and a $9,800 fine for crowing
Olympia homeless camp residents set to receive vaccine doses
Jury trials have resumed in Thurston County. Here’s what to expect if you’re summoned
Olympia would like to hear your thoughts on race and equity

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Olympic Peninsula health officers worry about mask directive
COVID aid for Peninsula education
Maskless on the Peninsula
Letter: Carbon sequestration

Puget Sound Business Journal
Report: Seattle’s average tech salary dipped in 2020
The Gateses’ public split spotlights a secretive fortune
Costco will not require fully vaccinated customers to wear masks
Opinion: Family governance can help you navigate tough decisions
Washington state to lift Covid-19 restrictions by June 30
Amazon offers bonuses and incentives as it looks to add 75K logistics jobs
SBA tells lenders to withdraw unapproved PPP loans ahead of deadline
The SBA’s Restaurant Revitalization Fund can only fund half its applications
Expert View: Why the focus on free community college misses the mark
Seattle chamber teams up with Dick’s to entice UW students to get vaccinated
SBA’s abrupt PPP shutdown strands millions of businesses — and spurs calls for more funding

Skagit Valley Herald
Overdoses, drug deaths increased in Skagit County in 2020

Tri-City Herald
Yogurt linked to WA state E. coli outbreak, including Tri-Cities
Update: Tri-Cities woman was working as highway flagger when killed by suspected drunk driver
Easterdays sued for defaulting on loans on Tri-Cities onion, potato facilities
Pete Carroll: Seahawks have talked to Russell Wilson, Bobby Wagner on restructuring deals
Richland’s virtual school is here to stay. And it’s now open to students statewide
City councils, school boards among 100 seats up for election in Benton, Franklin counties

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Pure Eire Dairy yogurt linked to E. coli outbreak; one case identified Walla Walla County
Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation report school age COVID-19 outbreak
City of Walla Walla wins public works award for Isaacs Avenue construction project
Washington state expands ‘good Samaritan’ law to protect volunteers in emergencies, disasters
COVID-19 vaccine clinic at Wa-Hi serves over 300 students; middle schools will host clinics in the coming week
Back to buildings: All Washington districts will open schools this fall, state says

Yakima Herald Republic
More names, more stories behind historic Irwin Nash photos coming out as people recognize relatives, friends
Yakima Valley companies making gradual return to the office
Yakima County prosecutor says no-bail holds are ‘a powerful tool’ that could be used in future cases
Agriculture groups ask Inslee to ease emergency rules on farmworker housing
Solving homeless issues in Yakima: Work defining new Care Campus to begin this fall
Commentary: Why my children are getting the COVID-19 vaccine
Commentary: Help the people fielding death threats to Congress
Opinion: Easing of COVID guidelines proves science was right

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington restaurants face staffing shortages as they plan for reopening
Target drops mask mandate for fully vaccinated customers, employees
Some fully vaccinated Washington residents aren’t ready to go maskless
Child tax credit update: Families to receive monthly payments starting July 15
VERIFY: Yes, private businesses can ask you if you are vaccinated or not

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Businesses split on mask-wearing requirements
King County man arrested, charged in connection with U.S. Capitol breach
2 rescues in 2 days on Snoqualmie River

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
To wear or not to wear? New CDC mask guidance causing confusion
Some businesses thinking twice about new ‘no mask’ guidelines issued by CDC
Changes during pandemic, new mask guidance means roller coaster of feelings for many
Officials: invasive green crabs spreading along coast

KNKX FM
Invasive green crabs continue to spread in Washington, especially in coastal estuaries
Decision expected by May 27 on whether officers will be charged in Manuel Ellis’ death
Overwork Killed More Than 745,000 People In A Year, WHO Study Finds

KUOW FM
Avoiding ‘political firestorm,’ Seattle police and fire don’t track employees’ COVID vaccinations
Supreme Court To Review Mississippi Abortion Law

KXLY (ABC)
Full reopening means bigger events and business boost for Spokane
Businesses continue to require masks despite new guidance

Q13 TV (Fox)
Store mask policies: Target, Starbucks, Costco, Walmart say masks optional for vaccinated customers
All counties in Washington move to Phase 3 on Tuesday

Web

Crosscut
Two bills aim to expand public broadband in WA, but there’s a hitch (Hansen, Wellman)
The PNW is a leader on forage fish management — but it needs better data

MyNorthwest
Suspected car prowler shot; car owner arrested in Tacoma
COVID Updates: Chance US reaches 70% vaccination by ‘middle of July’
King County health officer: Fully vaccinated should consider masking up in some settings
King County man arrested, charged in connection with U.S. Capitol breach
Mother-in-law of Council President M. Lorena González dies from injuries sustained in condo fire
Keep up with the hundreds of bills Gov. Inslee has signed
Sen. Murray, Gov. Inslee rebut proposal to remove Snake River dams
Washington representatives, senators push to reopen state before June 30

Friday, May 14

Washington state plans to fully reopen by June 30. All counties go Phase 3 on Tuesday
All of Washington state will be in Phase 3 of reopening on Tuesday, with the state on track for a total reopening of its economy by June 30, Gov. Jay Inslee said at a news conference Thursday. The plateau in the state’s fourth wave of new COVID-19 cases has turned into a decline, allowing all of the state to have restaurants, bars, fitness centers, movie theaters, bowling alleys and more open at 50% capacity as of Tuesday, he announced at a news conference. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Bob Brawdy/Tri City Herald File)

USDA, Interior Department gear up for ‘dangerous’ wildfire year
USDA and the Department of the Interior are gearing up for what’s expected to be one of the most intense fire years in recent history. “May is wildfire awareness month, but these days, it seems as if the fire season is the entire year,” Deb Haaland, secretary of the Interior, told reporters in a press call Thursday. The National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho, predicts 2021 will be another above-average year for wildfire potential in the West. Continue reading at Capital Press. (CalFire)

New Washington state law makes drug possession a misdemeanor
The jeans were from American Eagle, via Goodwill, and they were too short for their new owner, 6-foot Shannon Bowman. So Bowman stitched a couple inches of denim onto the bottom of the legs and put them on for the first time two days after her friend had given them to her. She didn’t notice the tiny, nearly empty baggie of methamphetamine in the coin pocket. That fact more than four years later would lead to a Washington state Supreme Court decision striking down Washington’s drug possession law; the expected vacation of tens of thousands of criminal convictions dating back decades; and the overhaul of the state’s approach to drug possession signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee on Thursday. Continue reading at Bellingham Herald. (Shannon Bowman)

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Associated Press
Washington governor: State on track to fully reopen June 30
Fire officials aim to douse blazes fast, avoid megafires
Ferry fire will cause Puget Sound summer travel delays
New Washington state law makes drug possession a misdemeanor
Washington schools to open full time in fall, masks required
Juneteenth to be a state holiday in Washington state in 2022

Auburn Reporter
Council to vote on Auburn’s first B&O tax
Inslee sets June 30 target for Washington to fully reopen
State Department of Health releases updated K-12 school guidance
As rates of stoned drivers increase, law enforcement face challenges

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Fully vaccinated people no longer need masks in most places, CDC says. What to know
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Watch live: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee to give COVID update at 2:30 p.m. Thursday
Washington state plans to fully reopen by June 30. All counties go Phase 3 on Tuesday
Whatcom sees 22 new COVID cases, fewer hospitalizations and a new variant appear Wednesday
Welcome back to Phase 3 of COVID reopening. What it means for WA bars and restaurants
Tolls at Narrows Bridge, SR 520 bridge and SR 99 tunnel may increase. What to know
Ferndale manufacturer gets state economic grant to continue expansion, hire more workers
Coronavirus weekly need-to-know: Pfizer for kids, mask guidance, free Ubers & more
Fully vaccinated people no longer need masks in most places, CDC says. What to know
What can happen if kids want a COVID vaccine — but parents refuse? Experts weigh in

Capital Press
Bill makes Washington DOT fund county weed control
Washington to lift COVID restrictions June 30
La Nina gone, but may return next winter
Delays create logistics ‘nightmare’ for hay exporters
Inslee names overtime bill for farmworker advocate
USDA, Interior Department gear up for ‘dangerous’ wildfire year
Port bottlenecks pinch potato exports

The Daily News
Cowlitz County, state moving to Phase 3 Tuesday ahead of plan to fully reopen June 30; mask restrictions eased

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Washington to lift COVID-19 restrictions on June 30

The Facts Newspaper
King County Remains in Phase 3

News Tribune (subscription required)
Tacoma judge ordered to remove himself from ‘entangled’ case that caused rift in court
Here are the COVID-19 case reported Thursday in Pierce County
Tacoma bar’s liquor license suspended after year of COVID complaints
Hotel Murano reopens downtown after 13 shuttered months
Going camping or hiking? It soon may cost more to enjoy some Washington outdoor areas

New York Times
Covid Live Updates: Vaccinated Americans Can Go Maskless, C.D.C. Says
The Racial Gap in U.S. Vaccinations Is Shrinking, but Work Remains
The Gateses’ Public Split Spotlights a Secretive Fortune
Colonial Pipeline Paid Roughly $5 Million in Ransom to Hackers
Many Unvaccinated Latinos in the U.S. Want the Shot, New Survey Finds
‘I Just Got My Vaccine’: U.S. Rollout Expands to Children Ages 12 to 15
House Democrats press forward with a bipartisan proposal to create a Jan. 6 commission.

Olympian (subscription required)
Washington state plans to fully reopen by June 30. All counties go Phase 3 on Tuesday
What if Lacey was in charge of permitting its urban growth area and not the county?
Welcome back to Phase 3 of COVID reopening. What it means for WA bars and restaurants
Thurston County adds 42 COVID-19 cases, overall total grows to 9,338
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Thurston County reports 90th COVID-19 death and 45 more cases on Wednesday

Redmond Reporter
Open-carry of weapons now illegal at state Capitol, rallies (Kuderer)

Seattle Medium
Inslee Signs Law Expanding Eligibility For College Bound Scholarship (Nobles)
Inslee Sets June 30 As Re-opening Date For The State Of Washington
City Of Seattle Begins Administering Pfizer Vaccine To 12 – 15 Year-Olds
Inslee Signs Legislation To End License Suspension For Failure To Pay Fines And Fees (Salomon)

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Gov. Inslee, Washington state’s U.S. senators reject GOP congressman’s pitch on Lower Snake River dam removal
Inslee: Washington to lift COVID restrictions by June 30; right now, mask rules eased for vaccinated people
New Washington state law makes drug possession a misdemeanor
Optimism, uncertainty at Seattle-area businesses as reopening plans take shape
‘Any business with a web presence is a potential target’: State sues ‘patent troll’ targeting Washington firms
Washington state diesel truck shop accused of tampering with hundreds of pickups to thwart emission controls
Opinion: Parents, get your children vaccinated for COVID-19 ASAP

South Seattle Emerald
Washington’s vaccination efforts enough to fully reopen state by end of June, Inslee says
SPD Chief Diaz overturns OPA decision, declines to specify discipline

Spokesman Review
Parents must file taxes by Monday deadline to receive correct monthly payments up to $300 per child starting in July
Inslee: Washington could fully reopen by June 30
Supreme Court considers challenge to speed cameras in Spokane school zone
Change of name, mascots approved at three Spokane schools in light of concerns
Former Spokane County Health Officer Bob Lutz was fired illegally, preliminary state investigation concludes

Tri-City Herald
WA state E. coli outbreak spreads to Tri-Cities, Walla Walla
7 deputies demand $22M, claiming county failed to protect them from Benton sheriff
2nd person dies after trying to cross highway during Franklin deputy chase
Local company with 40+ years in Tri-Cities bought by national corporation
Some Richland parents raise concerns about the teaching of social justice and race issues
Hottest days of the year coming to Tri-Cities. But not for long
State gives final OK for ages 12+ to get COVID vaccine. Find out where in Tri-Cities
Prosser back online after devastating fire. Search for new ‘city hall’ continues
Police searching for Kennewick gunman who robbed Domino’s Pizza

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Umatilla County health official wary as Oregon echoes CDC masking lift
Back to buildings: All Washington districts will open schools this fall, state says
Inslee: Washington to lift COVID-19 restrictions by June 30, sooner if vaccination goal reached

Washington Post
Many retailers will still require masks — at least for now — even with new CDC guidance
Israeli forces hit Hamas tunnels in Gaza as all-out war looms; more rockets rain down
Opinion: The CDC shouldn’t have removed restrictions without requiring proof of vaccination
Opinion: German Catholic priests blessing same-sex marriages may be on to something divine
House Democrats and Republicans reach deal on commission to investigate Jan. 6 attack on Capitol

Yakima Herald Republic
Washington state lifts mask requirements for people who are fully vaccinated, following CDC guidance

Broadcast

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Inslee: All counties will move to phase 3 on Tuesday, state ‘on track’ for full reopening June 30
CDC eases mask-wearing guidance for fully vaccinated Americans
Seattle Public Schools will return to full-time in-person learning this fall
Juneteenth to be a state holiday in Washington state in 2022
Vaccinated-only sections open at Mariners games at T-Mobile Park

KNKX FM
Fully Vaccinated People Can Stop Wearing Masks Indoors And Outdoors, CDC Says
Counties work with local school districts to administer COVID vaccines to young people

KUOW FM
KUOW’s pandemic blog: Updates for the NW
Mask Or No Mask? That Depends Where You Live
More Cities Are Handing People Cash With No Strings Attached: Here’s Why
Seattle students to return full time, in person this fall. Remote option available

Web

Crosscut
Washington state plans to drop all COVID restrictions June 30
Opinion: Native tribes need Biden’s bold plan to fix infrastructure
Opinion: The Gates divorce and the risks of billionaire philanthropy (Frame)

MyNorthwest
New bill could help cruises out of Seattle get around limitations, resume routes to Alaska
Gov. Inslee vetoes measure to end sale of new gas-powered cars by 2030
Gov. Inslee: Washington to follow CDC’s lead on relaxing mask rules for fully vaccinated
Hospitality, business community reacts to Gov. Inslee’s reopening date
Juneteenth officially a state holiday in Washington
Amazon hiring for 2K jobs, offering signing bonus for vaccine proof
Governor Inslee signs bill to reform state’s unemployment system
Gov. Inslee: Washington state on track for full reopening by June 30
Kent City Council considers banning roosters after noise complaints
UW planning for return to campus life, in-person classes this fall

Slog
Should Mayor Jenny Durkan Resign Over Those Missing Texts?
Washington Will Fully Reopen by June 30, Inslee Announces
Chief Diaz Refuses to Discipline Cop Who Started a Riot Over a Pink Umbrella, and His Reasoning Is Fucking Ahistorical
Portland Also Isn’t Dying

West Seattle Blog
After 10 months, Alki Beach fire rings have returned

Thursday, May 13

Open carry of weapons now prohibited at rallies, Capitol
Openly carrying guns and other weapons are now prohibited at the Washington state Capitol and public protests statewide, under a measure signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Jay Inslee. The new law, which had an emergency clause and took effect immediately upon Inslee’s signature, bars people from carrying weapons, either on their person or in their vehicle, while attending a permitted demonstration at a public place or while being within 250 feet of the perimeter of a permitted demonstration. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Ted S. Warren)

Deported for drug charge, one man seeks U.S. reentry after Blake decision
Before he was deported to Korea, John had visited there only once. He could understand some of the language from listening to his parents while growing up, but he wasn’t fluent or even conversational. He has lived in Korea now for more than 20 years, not once returning to Washington state, where much of his family remains. He missed his father’s death and funeral. He missed his daughter’s wedding and still hasn’t met her husband in person. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Jovelle Tamayo)

As DNR awaits new wildfire prevention funds from Legislature, officials warn people of record-breaking wildfire season to come
After several years of devastating wildfires across Washington, lawmakers this year agreed to make a major investment in wildfire prevention and forest health. It was a fight Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz had been fighting since she first came into office in 2017. And the money – $500 million over the next five years – can’t come soon enough. Continue reading at The Spokesman-Review. (Colin Mulvany)

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Associated Press
Open carry of weapons now prohibited at rallies, Capitol
State moving forward with plans to allow sports gambling
Consumer prices shot up 0.8% in April as worries escalate
US jobless claims sink to 473K as more GOP governors bar aid

Aberdeen Daily World
Raymond’s Willapa Center will include 30 affordable housing units, licensed child care
Positive COVID tests return Ocosta schools to remote learning
Fatal drug ODs surged in state as pandemic upended lives
Commentary: At least 123 people were shot dead over 72 hours. Did America notice?
Commentary: Pipeline cyberattack: Can we ‘take a sad song and make it better?’
Letter: TVW brought government to us

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
With 46 COVID cases, 15 hospitalizations and a death, Whatcom falling further from Phase 3
CDC panel recommends Pfizer COVID vaccine for kids aged 12-15. Here’s what that means

Columbian
In Our View: Light rail on new I-5 Bridge: To be or not to be? (Cleveland)
Grants help small businesses in Fourth Plain corridor survive COVID-19
Pandemic labor shortage hits Clark County hospitality industry hard
Clark County Board of Health mulls vaccine incentives
In Our View: Land-use laws causing high-tech stagnation

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Board of Health recommends that health officer remove use of mask; the state mandate remains in force
Inslee signs farmworker overtime law in Yakima

High Country News
The Gila River Indian Community innovates for a drought-ridden future

The Inlander
95 Reasons to Please, Please, Please get Vaccinated

News Tribune (subscription required)
Rural folks key to re-opening Pierce County. Can we convince them to get vaccinated?
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Here are the COVID-19 cases reported Wednesday for Pierce County
Puget Sound VA now has walk-in COVID-19 vaccine availability
Editorial: Spit-on, screamed-at Pierce County grocery workers face hazard deeper than COVID-19

New York Times
‘A Perpetual Motion Machine’: How Disinformation Drives Voting Laws
Covid Live Updates: Drive to Vaccinate Children Gathers Speed in U.S.
Biden Administration to Repeal Trump Rule Aimed at Curbing E.P.A.’s Power
Scientists warn U.S. lawmakers about the continued threat of coronavirus variants.

Olympian (subscription required)
Olympia will soon hire new homeless response coordinator
Providence’s mental health hospital proposal comes before Lacey hearings examiner May 18
Brown is named general counsel at Port of Olympia
Armed man found dead in Spanaway after shooting at Pierce County deputy
State asks K-12 schools to plan for return to full-time, in-person instruction next fall
3 more Thurston residents have died of COVID-19. County reports 23 more cases Tuesday

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Teens can get vaccine Thursday

Port Townsend Leader
Jefferson County passes 50 percent vaccinated mark

Runta News
Seattle Fire Department Mobile Teams Offer Vaccinations Without an Appointment

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Engine fire in state ferry Wenatchee will reduce capacity across Puget Sound
Open carry of weapons now prohibited at rallies, Capitol
Seattle police chief overturns watchdog’s discipline recommendation in ‘pink umbrella’ protest clash
Amazon seeks to hire 75,000; offers $100 to vaccinated hires
What does ‘party’ mean again? The do’s and don’ts of vaccinated gathering etiquette
When can 12- to 15-year-olds get Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine in Washington state? Here’s what we know

Skagit Valley Herald
State, federal funds may benefit Skagit County’s fiber internet network
Residents express concerns at Skagit County shoreline hearing
Opening of Burlington homeless shelter delayed
Stakeholders: Proposed Skagit River dam studies “inadequate”

South Seattle Emerald
Seattle and King County 12-15-year-olds become vaccine-eligible
Council vote leaves cuts to Seattle Police Department budget unresolved
County purchases first hotel to provide shelter to those without it
Opinion: Kinship care can help transform the child welfare system
Washington law enforcement will soon be required to learn the history of race and policing, will it be enough to spark change?
Homeless outreach providers say new rules would put them at city’s ‘beck and call’
Inslee’s signature on bill could reduce or add to Washington’s most charged crime (Saldaña)
Black Nurses Matter march highlights need to address medical racism
After success on minimum wage and Amazon tax, Sawant makes a push for rent control
Homeless advocates challenge ‘Compassion Seattle’ initiative

Spokesman Review
Sen. Patty Murray calls lack of affordable child care ‘silent epidemic’ during virtual Northwest Passages forum
Open carry at capitol, demonstrations now prohibited after Inslee signs bill into law (Kuderer)
As DNR awaits new wildfire prevention funds from Legislature, officials warn people of record-breaking wildfire season to come

Tri-City Herald
WA state E. coli outbreak spreads to Tri-Cities, Walla Walla
2nd person dies after trying to cross highway during Franklin deputy chase
More Tri-Citians hospitalized for COVID treatment, days before WA state reopening check
New deadline would delay sending plutonium-contaminated waste off Hanford for 20 years
Local company with 40+ years in Tri-Cities bought by national corporation

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Controversial Touchet Valley Trail protested Wednesday as commissioners discuss plans
Gustavo Reyna announces run for Walla Walla City Council at-large seat
Walla Walla County named in statewide E. coli outbreak
Another COVID-19 death in Walla Walla County
Gustavo Reyna announces run for Walla Walla City Council at-large seat

Washington Post
Police shootings of children spark new outcry, calls for training to deal with adolescents in crisis
Roughly 900,000 people could see severe cuts in unemployment aid as Republicans seek to curb assistance
Gas stations await relief from panic-buyers while Colonial Pipeline restores service
Derek Chauvin qualifies for a longer sentence in George Floyd’s murder, judge rules

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima health board recommends health officer lift county’s mask mandate; state rules still apply
New state law will change composition of Yakima County health board, but just how remains unclear (Riccelli)
New hours for State Fair Park vaccine site; vaccine clinics planned around Yakima County

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Open carry ban at state Capitol, near demonstrations signed into law in Washington (Kuderer)
People in western Washington traveling shorter distances for COVID-19 vaccines
Youth-led group ‘Worth a Shot’ is helping teens get the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine
Everyone 12 and older now eligible for COVID-19 vaccines in Washington
Elective surgeries postponed at Bellingham hospital amid capacity concerns
FAA chief defends Boeing 737 MAX, calls new electrical fix ‘straightforward’
E. coli outbreak expands to statewide investigation in Washington
Washington lawmaker planning legislation to curb robocalls

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Seattle mayor’s office scrambling to retrieve months of deleted text messages
Deadline near to file for enhanced child credit
Summer camp is back; vaccine for 12-15 year-olds will help
State approves Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for 12- to 15-year-olds
UW economics professor explains statewide inflation, how long it could last
Whatcom County leaders anticipating rollbacks to phase 2
Washington gas prices are rising, but it’s not because of Colonial Pipeline attack

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Wash. state approves Pfizer vaccine for adolescents as young as 12 years old
Overtime for farmworkers could be a painful adjustment, Wash. growers say
Washington students expected to return to the classroom this fall
Open carry of weapons now prohibited at demonstrations, Capitol building
Dangerous street races, takeovers a growing headache for police amid pandemic
Toxic E. coli outbreak spreads to four counties in Wash. state
Amazon seeks to hire 75,000; offers $100 bonus to vaccinated hires
Cyber attack on Colonial Pipeline raises security questions about Olympic Pipeline in PNW
King County taxpayers will have to cover costs for drug possession cases that were tossed

KUOW FM
Seattle Children’s Hospital is gearing up to vaccinate kids as young as 12. And even younger kids could soon follow
KUOW’s pandemic blog: Updates for the NW
Poll Finds Public Health Has A Trust Problem
Drug overdose deaths increased by over 30% during pandemic
CDC Advisers Say Kids As Young As 12 Can Get The Covid-19 Vaccine

KXLY (ABC)
Western States review group unanimously finds Pfizer COVID vaccine is safe, effective for 12-15 year-olds
Everyone 12 and older eligible to receive Pfizer vaccine in WA state
SPS unanimously votes to change Native American symbols and names of local schools

Q13 TV (Fox)
Washington state expands use of Pfizer vaccine for anyone 12 years old and older

Web

Crosscut
Deported for drug charge, one man seeks U.S. reentry after Blake decision
Solar power becomes ‘nightmare’ for some Klickitat County residents
Oregon Democrats try to learn from British Columbia’s carbon tax

Wednesday, May 12

Alternative to prison to be allowed in Washington for some who have mental illness
The state of Washington will soon offer an alternative to prison for people with a serious mental illness who commit a crime. Gov. Jay Inslee signed the bill into law Monday. Under the new Mental Health Sentencing Alternative, judges will have the option to sentence a person to community supervision and treatment in lieu of prison. The program will be open to individuals who are convicted of a felony crime that is not a serious violent offense or a sex offense. Continue reading at KNKX. (Washington State Department of Corrections)

Fair Start for Kids Act is just that — a start
Give the pandemic credit for one thing, at least. As schools began shutting down last year, a harsh realization began to sink in across the state: The child care crisis was real, and it wasn’t just for parents anymore. Businesses had already been feeling the squeeze, too, but the pandemic made it all that much tighter. Continue reading at The Yakima Herald. (Amanda Ray)

Governor Inslee signs farm worker overtime law in Yakima
(Available in English via Google Translate) Gov. Jay Inslee signed Senate Bill 5172, now called the Tomás Villanueva Overtime Protection Act, on Tuesday in honor of the late Yakima Valley farmworker activist, the Yakima Herald-Republic reported. “Under this law, all agricultural workers will begin to receive overtime pay in 2022 and will have a 40-hour work week in early 2024,” the newspaper published. The law was passed in both houses of state Congress with bipartisan support, the newspaper reported. Continue reading at El Sol de Yakima. (Amanda Ray)