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Monday, March 29

House approves open carry ban at Capitol, permitted rallies
The Washington state House on Sunday approved a measure to prohibit the open carrying of guns and other weapons at the Capitol and surrounding grounds and at or near permitted public demonstrations statewide. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (AP)

House Democrats’ $58 billion budget plan aims to balance out uneven economic recovery
Majority Democrats in the Washington state House of Representatives proposed a roughly $58 billion two-year operating budget Friday, on the heels of a roughly $59 billion proposal issued Thursday by their Senate colleagues. Continue reading at The Olympian.

State utilities commission OKs $40M for customer bill relief
The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission has approved $40 million in new energy bill assistance for people struggling financially due to the pandemic, including Puget Sound Energy gas and electricity customers. Continue reading at The Puget Sound Business Journal. (Puget Sound Energy)

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Associated Press
Some green groups oppose lower Snake River dam removal plan
Washington House approves open carry ban at Capitol, permitted rallies
Southwest Airlines orders 100 Boeing 737 Max planes
AP Exclusive: Pandemic means far fewer eyes on kids’ welfare
US stocks slip in early trading, weighed down by banks
The Latest: Biden extends federal moratorium on evictions
Former officer’s trial in George Floyd’s death gets underway
Giant container ship that blocked Suez Canal finally free
Issaquah schools agree to $4.25M sexual assault settlement
Conservationists sue to save spotted owl logging protections
Ban on renter evictions during COVID-19 pandemic is extended
Seattle teachers’ union OKs agreement for return to in-person learning April 5

Aberdeen Daily World
Commissioners still pondering $1 million grant for shelter
Aberdeen council unanimously supports proposed overnight homeless shelter
More vaccines headed to the county, first dose clinics starting April 9
Application deadline extended for federal relief funding to fishing industries
Corps of Engineers to begin Grays Harbor maintenance dredging April 5
Commentary: The question every Asian American hates to be asked: ‘Where are you from?’

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Washington state’s studded tire removal deadline is nearly here
Without a countywide taxing district, this will help replace the aging Lummi Island ferry
Preach safety as your kids ride in the back. In practice, you’ll enjoy a better commute
Whatcom grapples with the impact of ruling on those with past drug possession convictions
Whatcom sees 26 new confirmed COVID cases Saturday
Whatcom sees 17 new confirmed COVID cases Friday, Bellingham schools report incident
WA to decide if Tri-Cities wind farm is ‘colossal impact’ on landscape or a lifesaver
House Democrats’ $58 billion budget plan aims to balance out uneven economic recovery (Sullivan, Ormsby, Macri, Frame)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Friday in Washington state
Pregnant women gain COVID antibodies from vaccine — and pass them to baby, study finds
Why do some people with COVID lose taste, smell? Your mouth may be to blame, study says
Coronavirus weekly need-to-know: Vaccine side effects, schools, COVID variants & more
Delayed stimulus checks for 30 million Social Security recipients could go out soon
U.S. nuclear weapons are aging quickly. With few spare parts, how long can they last?

Capital Press
Washington House panel rejects key OT bill amendment (Ortiz-Self)
Tribes call on Biden, Congress to remove Snake River dams

Columbian
In Our View: State should expand COVID-19 vaccine eligibility
In Our View: Cheers & Jeers: Farmers market springs to life

Everett Herald (subscription required)
In places like Stanwood, Phase 3 gives reason for optimism
Judge David Kurtz to step down from Superior Court in May
Budgets, school re-openings and data privacy
More than 100 protest Asian-American hate in Edmonds
Public outcry halts Brier-area road extension plan
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Vaccination anxiety: Officials urge people wait their turn
Opinion: If you can’t beat ‘em in elections, supress ‘em at polls
WaPo Comment: Voting restrictions, their effects have long roots
Editorial: Lawmakers testing public’s patience on gun laws
Letter: Everett’s no-sit, no-lie law just moves problem elsewhere
Letter: Offshore wind project should be considered for our state

International Examiner
Youth-led protests in Hing Hay Park and King County against anti-Asian hate start and continue a movement

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Western State Hospital settles lawsuit with disabled Kitsap County Jail inmate
Kitsap school districts won’t rush to adopt new 3-feet social-distancing standards
Senate Democrats present spending proposal to Legislature
Sheriff should reconsider his stance, and come alongside the community

News Tribune (subscription required)
‘We can’t keep taking these tiny morsels.’ Why Tacoma condemning Asian hate isn’t enough
Op-Ed: Let’s lay vaccine hesitancy to rest in Washington state, Tacoma ER doctor says

New York Times
Derek Chauvin Trial Live Updates: Lawyers Present Case in George Floyd Killing
The Vaccination Gap Among Hispanic Communities Reflects Barriers to Access
Transgender Girls in Sports: G.O.P. Pushes New Front in Culture War
Contentious Union Vote at Amazon Heads to a Count

Olympian (subscription required)
Thurston County adds 27 COVID-19 cases on Sunday, weekly total grows to 4-week high
How Olympia’s plans for an RV safe lot fell apart
Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls set to reopen with new trail, hatchery and more
Undiscovered use of force complaint upends Olympia’s search for a new police chief
North Thurston says Black Student Union meeting ‘zoom bombed’ with hate speech, racial slurs

Peninsula Daily News
Three Clallam County public libraries offering computer access
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Peninsula clinics give 1,200 shots
Jefferson County to open campgrounds

Puget Sound Business Journal
State utilities commission OKs $40M for customer bill relief
Editor’s notebook: On the long road to recovery, we should aspire to greatness, not normalcy
Light rail contractor fined more than $800K for unpaid wages and penalties
SBA flagged 190,000 PPP loans with ‘hold’ codes — and is deploying new tech to address them

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Why the ‘walk’ signals at some Seattle crosswalks seem a little longer now
Washington state seeks federal waiver to do much less K-12 standardized testing this spring
Ban on renter evictions during COVID-19 pandemic is extended
Washington state’s COVID-19 case count flattening, increasing in some counties
For the first time in 10 months, there’s optimism among most Washington state small businesses
To honor the next 7 generations, Samish Indian Nation preserves culture, language by moving online during pandemic times
More calls for King County sheriff to resign after email about settlement in fatal Le shooting
Washington House Democrats propose state budget aimed at easing housing crisis after COVID-19 pandemic (Macri)
Republicans in Washington state still pushing the election conspiracy that won’t die
Mysterious Seattle-area mailer slams lawmakers for trying to change Washington state’s estate tax. Who sent it? (Orwall, Pollet, Macri)
Opinion: Mom to mom: The ‘R’ word hurts
Editorial: Legislature, enact sensible gun control now

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit County taking comment on stormwater management plan
Pop-up clinic vaccinates 200 Skagit farmworkers
Local nonprofits partner to preserve small piece of Skagit watershed

The Skanner
King County Councilmember McDermott Calls for Sheriff to Resign

Spokesman Review
Getting There: ‘The world is made for people who drive.’ But does it have to be?
‘Light years ahead’: Spokane police address dizzying number of mental health crises with unique team
Opinion: Shawn Vestal: Our ‘red-hot’ housing market is freezing cold at the bottom
Heavy winds knock out power to thousands in Inland Northwest, dust closes I90 near Moses Lake
City of Spokane, Lime, eye two-year contract extension

Tri-City Herald
60+ mph Tri-Cities winds cause 7-car chain-reaction crash, crumple trees and power lines
WA to decide if Tri-Cities wind farm is ‘colossal impact’ on landscape or a lifesaver
Columbia Park campground shut down nearly 20 years ago. Will it ever reopen?
2 years after she was murdered, Tri-Cities grandmother’s body has never been found
Richland specialty kitchen storefront closes after nearly 45 years
Kennewick K9 corners domestic violence suspect after 5-hour standoff
Thousands of vaccine appointments open in Tri-Cities. Thousands more eligible next week
Kidnapping suspect arrested at Mexico border 12 years after taking Kennewick girl
High winds, blowing dust to pound Tri-Cities region. Visibility could be near zero

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Legal drugs? Walla Walla, Columbia county authorities find ‘Blake’ decision no balking matter
Edison Elementary School students recreate classic art
Amy Ford to take over leadership of Walla Walla Online
Walla Walla, Umatilla county vaccination clinics continue to expand eligibility

Washington Post
Prosecution makes opening arguments in trial of Derek Chauvin, officer charged with murdering George Floyd
Pfizer, Moderna vaccines 90 percent effective in preventing coronavirus infections in U.S. study of essential workers, CDC says
Feuds, fibs and finger-pointing: Trump officials say coronavirus response was worse than known
As Myanmar’s security forces crush anti-coup protests, more and more children are dying
Giant ship blocking Suez Canal is freed; incident on key trade route cost the global economy billions of dollars

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima growers say apricots, cherries, asparagus appear to be on schedule
Newhouse renews plea for cold case task office in Yakima focused on missing and murdered Indigenous women
House approves open carry ban at Capitol, permitted rallies
Some green groups oppose lower Snake River dam removal plan
Yakima School District high schools to have outdoor, in-person graduation ceremonies
Yakima prosecutor, police chief say juvenile reform bill will expose more kids to gang activity (Darneille)
Opinion: Other views: Keep mom-and-pop landlords in business

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington House approves open carry ban at Capitol, permitted rallies
Monday marks deadline for Amazon workers in Alabama to vote on unionizing
Vaccine clinic in Seattle’s Central District helps Asian immigrants get their shots
Vaccine hesitancy is the next big issue in Washington’s fight against COVID-19
Do COVID-19 vaccines prevent transmission? A new study aims to find out
Bill would allow microenterprise home kitchens around Washington (Frame)

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
House approves open carry ban at Capitol, permitted rallies
King County councilman calls for sheriff to resign over timing, contents of internal email
State’s Phase Finder tool no longer needed to verify vaccine eligibility starting Wednesday
Anti-Asian hate rallies, show of support on National Day of Action
More than 1 million fully vaccinated in Washington

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Armed protesters, counter-protesters gather at Capitol in Salem, police say

KGMI
Proposal to allow ag employers increased flexibility on overtime pay fails (Ortiz-Self)

KNKX FM
Fourth wave of COVID still a concern, says King County health official
House Democrats hope to head off mass evictions with more than $1B spending in next state budget (Macri, Gregerson)

KUOW FM
Updates on the coronavirus pandemic in Seattle and Washington state
Washington state Democrats lay out their budget priorities
Immunocompromised And Concerned About The Vaccine? Here’s What You Need To Know
Vaccination eligibility will soon expand big time. Will Washington state have a supply issue?
‘Phase Finder’ no longer needed to verify vaccine eligibility in Washington state
Seattle students to start returning to schools: 58% families say they will go back

NW Public Radio
Why Nearly All Mass Shooters Are Men
How To File Your Taxes For Free, Get Help And Avoid Traps Trying To Get You To Pay
Small Ship Cruising Getting Ready To Resume In Pacific Northwest And Alaska
Whitman County Warns Residents To Reconsider Activity As COVID-19 Case Rates Climb

Q13 TV (Fox)
‘We are Americans’: Large Seattle rally calls to end hate against Asian Americans
‘It’s become too confusing’: Seattle mayor says all adults should be eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccine
Seattle teachers’ union OKs agreement for return to in-person learning April 5
Disposable face masks, gloves polluting Puget Sound streets and shores
Man charged in King County hate crime accused of targeting Asian women
The Divide: Dems & Gun Control Debate
Brandi Kruse: Beware of these so-called homeless ‘advocates’

Web

Crosscut
Seattle could guarantee lawyers for renters facing eviction
Opinion: In Seattle and Atlanta, anti-Asian hate sparks unspeakable grief

MyNorthwest
Seattle council to vote on bill guaranteeing lawyer for tenants facing eviction
Tenino, Washington brings back wooden money for another round in 2021
COVID updates: Seattle students begin returning to classrooms
Washington state House passes bill banning open carry at protests, state Capitol
Sun returns to Puget Sound region after wild weekend weather
Community pushes to build memorial to remember those lost in Oso slide
King County health officer: 12s know ‘not to celebrate before we’re in the end zone’
Thurston County Sheriff’s Office deputy, man injured in Yelm shooting
House Democrats release $58 billion two-year budget proposal
Crews prep boring machine for new sewage tunnel from Ballard to Wallingford
State Department of Health open to flexibility with mass vaccination sites
Fife street racers risk getting their cars impounded for two weeks
Seattle teachers, district agree to maintain 6-feet of distance for students
Washington Sen. Murray says she’s ‘all in’ on move to permanent Daylight Saving Time
State passes bill restoring voting rights to Washington felons directly after prison
23 people in Washington being monitored for Ebola

Slog
House Committee Shuns Strong Privacy Bill, Passes Weakened Version Instead (Kloba, Hansen, Carlyle)

West Seattle Blog
New ferry you’ll see off West Seattle starting today
Seattle Public Schools changes elementary, K-8 schedules, starts in-person-learning return

Friday, March 26

Washington Senate Democrats roll out state budget boost
Senate Democrats on Thursday proposed a two-year $58.9 billion spending plan that would increase the operating budget by more than 13%. The budget includes a new 7% tax on capital gains and would allocate $125 million to prevent catastrophic wildfires. Continue reading at The Capital Press. (Don Jenkins)

Washington state OKs bill to give voting rights to parolees
Washington state lawmakers have voted to automatically restore voting rights to people who have been released from prison after committing felonies, even if they’re still on parole. With the support of majority Democrats, the state Senate passed the measure 27-22 Wednesday night, following earlier approval by the House. It now heads to Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee, who is expected to sign it. The main sponsor was Democratic Rep. Tarra Simmons of Bremerton, who was incarcerated before becoming a lawyer. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)

State launches new Office of Firearm Safety and Violence Prevention
The newly-created Office of Firearm Safety and Violence Prevention at the Department of Commerce will lead a statewide effort to coordinate evidence-based intervention and prevention strategies to address community gun violence. The office’s work will be directed at the highest risk populations of perpetrators and victims in the highest risk communities. The office is among a handful in the nation and was formed under legislation sponsored by Sen. Manka Dhingra, D-Redmond, in 2020. Continue reading at The Auburn Reporter. (Shalisa Hayes/State Department of Commerce)

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Associated Press
New problems arise for crop storage as planet gets warmer
Washington state OKs bill to give voting rights to parolees (Simmons, Kuderer)
WA Senate Democrats’ budget includes state capital gains tax (Rolfes)
Inslee: K-12 schools can reduce COVID-19 social distancing requirements
Over 50 infected in COVID-19 outbreak at King County Jail
23 people in Washington being monitored for Ebola
Pacific Northwest tribal leaders call on Biden, Congress to remove Snake River dams

Auburn Reporter
State launches new Office of Firearm Safety and Violence Prevention
First large-scale, human composting facility in the world will open in Auburn

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Watch live: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee to give COVID-19, schools update Thursday (Rolfes)
Washington Gov. Inslee announces distancing can be 3 feet in schools, aligning with CDC
Second COVID-19 variant detected in Whatcom County ‘cause for concern, but not alarm’
Clearing the confusion: When can you get vaccinated in Washington state?
Whatcom sees a death and 19 COVID cases Wednesday, as WWU examines potential ‘surge’
Inslee: COVID-19 distancing can now be 3 feet in schools
Tribes call on Biden, Congress to remove Snake River dams
Coronavirus weekly need-to-know: Vaccine side effects, schools, COVID variants & more
Do COVID vaccines work against the new coronavirus variants? Here’s what the data says

Capital Press
‘Environmental justice’ bill advances in House (Fitzgibbon)
Washington Senate Democrats roll out state budget boost (Rolfes)
Stakeholders send letter opposing Simpson dam plan to NW political leaders

Columbian
In Our View: We can learn from Oregon’s drug experience

Covington-Maple Valley Reporter
Comment: Transportation plan puts a focus on equity for all (Ramos, Valdez)

The Daily News
Inslee: K-12 schools can reduce COVID social distancing

Everett Herald (subscription required)
State Senate Democrats unveil ambitious $59.2B spending plan (Rolfes, Robinson, Ortiz-Self)
Senate Democrats go big with budget. Will House go bigger? (Robinson, Ortiz-Self, Kuderer)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: Why cities can no longer have their own gun laws
WaPo Comment: McConnell wrong on filibuster’s ‘racial history’
WaPo Fact check: Is Biden’s tax ceiling for individuals or families?
Letter: Legislation is a chance to help children, families (Berg)
Letter: Sheriff should keep quiet on Constitution, masks

International Examiner
Opinion: The time to Stop AAPI Hate is NOW
Letter to the Editor: Lawmakers should support the Working Families Tax Credit

Issaquah Reporter
Op-ed by Reps. Ramos and Valdez: Comment: Transportation plan puts a focus on equity for all

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Inslee: K-12 schools can reduce COVID-19 social distancing requirements
Washington state OKs bill to give voting rights to parolees

News Tribune (subscription required)
Lakewood gains yet another multimillion-dollar warehouse, distribution development
Tacoma school board moves quickly to elect new superintendent
More than 100 new COVID-19 cases reported in Pierce County on Thursday

New York Times
For Biden, a New Virus Dilemma: How to Handle a Looming Glut of Vaccine
Covid-19 Live News: States Expand Vaccine Eligibility Amid a Stubborn U.S. Caseload
Why the Georgia G.O.P.’s Voting Rollbacks Will Hit Black People Hard
Biden Assails Republicans Over Voting Rights and Defends Record on Border
Riders Are Abandoning Buses and Trains. That’s a Problem for Climate Change.

Olympian (subscription required)
What were those lights Washington state saw streaking across the night sky?
Who will be Olympia’s next Police Chief? Jelcick among four finalists
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Thurston County reports 16 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday
Washington Gov. Inslee announces distancing can be 3 feet in schools, aligning with CDC
Senate Democrats unveil plan for $59.2 billion budget and $7 billion in federal funds
Chehalis tribe, Lacey police looking for missing people
Vacation property now Native American excavation site after bones found in Washington

Peninsula Daily News
Conservationists sue for spotted owl protections
Some students to return to full-time in classrooms
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance

Port Townsend Leader
No new COVID-19 cases reported Wednesday in JeffCo

Puget Sound Business Journal
Brick-and-mortar retail challenges amplified by pandemic
State narrows social distancing rule for K-12 schools
The PPP deadline is poised to be extended to this new date
Inslee ends ban on state worker travel to North Carolina
Experts: Mental health needs among professionals, children expected to rise

Skagit Valley Herald
Lots of ideas, few decisions — yet — at La Conner parks meeting
Local hired as new Skagit Community Foundation director
Mount Vernon commits funding to Burlington homeless shelter, hotel vouchers
Skagit PUD looking at helping farmers with crop irrigation
Sedro-Woolley Police Department adds more officers

South Seattle Emerald
COVID-19 cases rise as state announces people 16+ to qualify for vaccine May 1
In the face of hate, Asian Americans call for solidarity with all people of color
Pandemic year pushes a daughter of custodians to fight for her mom’s profession

Spokesman Review
Washington state Senate Democrats unveil $59.2 billion two-year budget they say ‘hits all four corners of the state’
Spokane City Council calls for urgency in filling civil rights position
Spokane Public Schools board meetings are open to the public again, but the hybrid model may be here to stay
Inslee: Schools can loosen social-distancing to 3 feet
Spokane Public Schools survey shows public division on stadium issue
Opinion: Shawn Vestal: Again and again, Ferguson puts forth assault-weapon ban and the Democratic Legislature ignores it

Tri-City Herald
Kennewick board members fined $1,000 each for breaking campaign laws
Small, rare tornado spotted near Tri-Cities on Thursday
Tri-Cities new COVID case rate is getting closer to matching WA state rate
2020 ‘Tumbleweed avalanche’ trapped cars, closed roads near Tri-Cities. New report out
Invasive beetles that destroy lawns, roses and crops now found in Mid-Columbia region

Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber
The Kids Are Not Alright, Part 2: Student Support Services

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Change in CDC guidelines could result in longer school days in Walla Walla Valley
Walla Walla County’s top health official eager for vaccine eligibility to open up
‘Paraffin pestilence’ shows up again at Walla Walla’s St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Walla Walla man pleads guilty to having illegal gun, delivering drugs
Walla Walla man reportedly fled courthouse while awaiting sentencing
Washington schools move to 3-feet social distancing for students
Walla Walla police arrest alleged car casing Clarkston couple

Yakima Herald Republic
Federal stimulus could help fund Yakima’s fire and police fleet upgrades
Governor: K-12 schools can reduce COVID social distancing
Yakima School District will wait on social distancing change, superintendent says
New problems arise for crop storage as planet gets warmer
Oregon Senate votes in favor of bill banning guns in Capitol
23 people in Washington being monitored for Ebola
Tribes call on Biden, Congress to remove Snake River dams
Washingtonians 16 and up will be eligible for COVID vaccines by May 1, state says; here’s how we get there

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington state OKs bill to give voting rights to parolees (Simmons, Kuderer)
Washington health officials monitoring 23 people for Ebola
‘Loophole’ allowed ineligible people to get COVID-19 vaccine in Washington
Former Seattle restaurant owners reflect on their pandemic pivot
Washington adopts 3-foot distance rule in schools in line with CDC guidance

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket debris lights up PNW sky
Governor’s office issues guidelines for social distancing in schools
Tacoma moves to crack down on street racing. Violators face jail time, fines
Drug possession bills emerge to address wide-reaching state Supreme Court ruling
Pierce County will begin to collect behavioral health tax this summer
Washingtonians 16 and up to be eligible for vaccines by May 1

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Washington to follow CDC guidance, reduce social distancing in schools to 3 feet
Police: Carjacking suspect drives into group of protesters in downtown Seattle
Welfare check at man’s Seattle home ends in him being cuffed, lawsuit
Pacific Northwest tribal leaders call on Biden, Congress to remove Snake River dams
Homeless encampments at some Seattle parks puts little league sports in bind

KNKX FM
Northwest tribes call for removal of Lower Snake River dams
WA Senate Democrats unveil budget proposal; includes big boost in spending, capital gains tax (Rolfes)

KUOW FM
Washington state loosens classroom distancing rules to speed up school reopening
More than 50 test Covid-positive in King County jails within two weeks
Updates on the pandemic in the Northwest
‘Walk One Day In Our Shoes’: Life Near Minimum Wage
WA Senate Democrats unveil budget proposal; includes big boost in spending, capital gains tax (Rolfes)

KXLY (ABC)
Washington state OKs bill to give voting rights to parolees (Kuderer, Simmons)
Gov. Inslee relaxes social distancing guidelines in schools to 3 feet apart

NW Public Radio
Washington Legislature Passes Bill Granting Voting Rights To Felony Parolees (Simmons)
Washington State Senate Democrats Unveil Budget Proposal: Big Boost In Spending, Capital Gains Tax (Rolfes)
Once Imperiled, America’s Bald Eagle Populations Are Soaring
‘Blue Tides’ Of Sailor Jellies On Northwest Coast Correlate With Warmer Seas In Winter

Q13 TV (Fox)
Washington changes social distancing minimum requirement in schools to 3 feet apart
Biden doubles COVID-19 vaccination goal, addresses border crisis in 1st White House press conference
Saluting African American WWII veteran who broke barriers and lifted up others
Tacoma Police: 75% of catalytic converter thefts this year taken from hybrid cars
King County Metro unveils ‘Black Lives Matter’ buses
Puyallup mom takes action against street racing after death of her sister

Web

Crosscut
Court’s legalization of drug possession has WA lawmakers scrambling (Davis, Harris-Talley, Dhingra, Mullet)
WA may regulate medically necessary abortions at religious hospitals (Kuderer, Dhingra, Randall)
Washington’s vaccinated navigate socializing after a year in lockdown
How racism directly threatens our public health

MyNorthwest
State leaders ‘disappointed’ to see assault weapons ban stall out again in 2021 (Kuderer)
State passes bill restoring voting rights to Washington felons directly after prison
23 people in Washington being monitored for Ebola
Carjacker hits multiple vehicles, speeds through group of Seattle protesters
Washington is ‘so close to the end,’ but still needs to take COVID precautions
Debris from SpaceX rocket streaks across night sky over Washington
Senate Democrats unveil historic $59B two-year budget proposal
New bill promises help for Washington businesses still feeling unemployment tax pain
Washington moves distance requirements from 6 to 3 feet in schools
Chance of snow Monday as opportunity ‘quickly running out toward April’
Washington solidifies vaccine roadmap ahead of open eligibility on May 1

Slog
Amazon Just Cut Off Warehouse Workers from a Companywide Directory
Washington Proposes One Bill to End the Drug War and Several Bills to Fire It Back Up Again (Dhingra, Mullet)
Washington Republicans: Maybe Mass Shooters Just Got Lonely During Quarantine?

Thursday, March 25

Drug possession bills emerge to address wide-reaching state Supreme Court ruling
About a month has passed since the Washington state Supreme Court ruled the state’s simple drug possession law unconstitutional in its State v. Blake decision. Justices found the law was unconstitutional because it didn’t require prosecutors to prove an accused person knowingly or intentionally had drugs. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (The Olympian)

No hug for eight months, isolation-driven depression, & no chance to grieve: Inside the pandemic’s disproportionate impacts
Nearly everyone has struggled somehow over the last year as the COVID-19 pandemic halted daily routines, kept relatives and friends from visiting one another, and prompted a system of temporary restrictions, many of which remain in place a year later. But some groups have been disproportionately impacted. Students struggled to learn remotely as their families had to navigate working and schooling from home. Virus outbreaks in some factories and essential industries had an outsized effect on minorities. Continue reading at The Inlander. (Young Kwak)

Environmental justice moves to mainstream as governments embrace cause
Washington state’s five oil refineries all sit near, or on, Indian reservations. Environmental justice advocates say that fact reflects a national pattern of air pollution disproportionately hitting people of color. The Swinomish Reservation is next to two refineries: the Shell Puget Sound refinery and the neighboring Marathon Oil plant in Anacortes. Continue reading at KUOW. (John Ryan)

Print

Associated Press
WA residents 16 and up to be eligible for vaccines by May 1
Over 50 infected in COVID-19 outbreak at King County Jail
Stocks dip as oil falls back, Wall Street keeps churning
Former Washington state auditor faces prison over tax fraud
Conservationists sue to save spotted owl logging protections

Aberdeen Daily World
Mayors share their challenges, successes in year of COVID
Looking to the ocean to produce clean energy
Undeterred by pandemic, Aberdeen Community Court marks four years

Auburn Reporter
Insurers told to stop using credit scores to set rates

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Drug possession bills emerge to address wide-reaching state Supreme Court ruling (Billig, Dhingra, Hobbs, Mullet, Jinkins, Davis)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Whatcom County measure expands this sales tax for affordable housing
Whatcom business COVID-19 updates: More travel, more liquor, more hand sanitizer
Take a look at taxes in Washington state
Whatcom providers to get 3,470 first doses of COVID vaccine, fewer than last week
Bald eagles bouncing back from the brink of extinction, officials say. How’d it happen?

Bothell Reporter
Eastside police agencies form independent use of force investigation team

Capital Press
Senate bill would mandate more meatpacker cash purchases
WSDA seeks public’s help against Japanese beetle outbreak

Columbian
Tower Mall COVID-19 vaccination site prioritizing second doses
In Our View: Washington’s housing issues require legislative action (Liias)

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
UFWF: More Opportunities Needed to Vaccinate Farm Workers
English program at Yakima Valley College helps prepare for the future

Everett Herald (subscription required)
County Council upholds approval for Bothell-area subdivision
325 people sign petition opposing new shelter near Coupeville
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Finding farmland in King County is a perpetual struggle
WaPo Comment: Press has something to prove, as much as Biden does
WaPo Comment: Vice president moves past ‘thoughts and prayers’

High Country News
Mass shootings are a product of America’s violent culture

The Inlander
A year into the pandemic, numbers fail to capture the loss caused by COVID-19
Though the Spokane area lost many businesses to COVID-19, the economy is already bouncing back
Public health got a lot about COVID wrong, but that’s science for ya
No hug for eight months, isolation-driven depression, & no chance to grieve: Inside the pandemic’s disproportionate impacts
Idaho saved more jobs during the pandemic, but Washington prevented more deaths
Timeline of Significant Covid-19 Events
Locals recall their last taste of “normal” pre-shutdown, and what they’re looking forward to most post-COVID
I’m 30 and COVID kicked my ass. Please get vaccinated

Issaquah Reporter
Guest column: Issaquah leaders support a clean fuel standard
Comment: Transportation plan puts a focus on equity for all

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Bainbridge Island approves hazard pay hike requirement for grocery store workers

News Tribune (subscription required)
Pierce County COVID-19 case rate shows uptick since mid-month, health experts say
Pierce County will begin to collect behavioral health tax this summer
Fife passes law targeting that which street racers hold dear: their cars
Tacoma moves to crack down on street racing. Violators face jail time, fines
Editorial: Was Sheriff Troyer wrong to call 911? This lawmaker says yes, wants law against it (Das)

New York Times
E.P.A. to Review Attacks on Science Under Trump
Biden’s Recovery Plan Bets Big on Clean Energy
Jobless Claims Fall to Lowest Point in the Pandemic: Live Updates
Riders Are Abandoning Buses and Trains. That’s a Problem for Climate Change.
Biden May Be the Most Pro-Labor President Ever; That May Not Save Unions
Amazon Walks a Political Tightrope in Its Union Fight
‘Essential’ Migrant Farmworkers Risk Infection and Deportation
Watch Live: Social Media Executives Testify on Online ‘Disinformation’

Olympian (subscription required)
Drug possession bills emerge to address wide-reaching state Supreme Court ruling (Billig, Dhingra, Hobbs, Mullet, Jinkins, Davis)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Thurston County adds 29 COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, increasing total to 7,660

Peninsula Daily News
Seattle Proud Boys leader pleads not guilty in Capitol siege
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Flow of vaccine to Peninsula to slow

Port Townsend Leader
Preventing increased homelessness begins now | Housing Hub (Van De Wege, Tharinger, Chapman)
New case of coronavirus confirmed in Jefferson County

Puget Sound Business Journal
Pandemic upends economics for public-private projects on campuses
SBA cash grant program has sent its first checks. Here’s how many have applied.
Boeing engineer works to address racism, discrimination by speaking up
Washington to expand Covid vaccine eligibility to everyone 16 and older by May 1
Seattle homes selling for 5% above asking price, among tops in the US
Opinion: Hospital mergers create monopolies and increase burdens for patients
SBA reveals first-ever timeline for $28.6B grant program for restaurants hit hard by the pandemic
SBA is more than tripling the size of its disaster loans. Here are the details.

Redmond Reporter
Ground broken on unprecedented model for affordable housing, health and social services in Redmond

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Welfare check by SPD turns into ordeal for 74-year-old man who was handcuffed, held at gunpoint in own home
Washingtonians 16 and up will be eligible for COVID vaccines by May 1, state says; here’s how we get there
King County would spend $600 million in COVID-19 recovery under plan proposed by County Executive Dow Constantine
Seattle School Board chooses new board member, approves plan to return to classrooms
Editorial: Legalize America’s essential immigrant farmworkers
Northwest senators introduce bill to halt sale of National Archives at Seattle
Opinion: Invest in Seattle Colleges for a path to higher education equity

Seattle Medium
House Bill Would Make Racial Equity A Reality At Community Colleges (Updated)

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit PUD looking at helping farmers with crop irrigation
Skagit County doing well in getting residents vaccinated
Mount Vernon seeks public input on fireworks

South Seattle Emerald
Le family settles, says KCSO, Deputy Molina culpable — sheriff email claims otherwise
Fractures emerge as council continues police budget cut debate
Opinion: What we can no longer accept
Volunteer group that removes trash from homeless encampments draws criticism
Opinion: Seattle Public Schools commit to going fossil fuel free by 2040

Spokesman Review
Idaho Panhandle residents ages 16 and older eligible for COVID-19 vaccine starting today
Need for utility assistance remains severe in Spokane
Some Washington lawmakers wonder if federal stimulus will be enough for transportation projects
Spokane Public Schools expects the state will drop student distancing requirements to 3 feet
Durham faces second L&I investigation and management changes over COVID-19 issues

Tri-City Herald
Drug possession bills emerge to address wide-reaching state Supreme Court ruling
Kennewick police shoot man with rubber bullets after threats to kill wife hiding with 4 kids
3 adults and child killed in head-on crash in the Yakima Valley
FBI arrests Proud Boys suspect south of Tri-Cities in deadly U.S. Capitol conspiracy
3 Tri-Cities districts vote to return students to schools. Is it just wishful thinking?
Not eligible yet for COVID vaccine in Tri-Cities? Health officials say check again
Driver fired 10+ shots into orchard near Benton City. He didn’t see the workers
3 adults and child killed in head-on crash in the Yakima Valley

Vancouver Business Journal
Clark County announces 2021 Green Awards winners

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Change in CDC guidelines could result in longer school days in Walla Walla Valley
Walla Walla police arrest alleged car casing Clarkston couple
Walla Walla County reports 2 new coronavirus cases Wednesday, no new deaths
2 new coronavirus cases in Walla Walla County Tuesday, no new deaths
Carman Gerking keeps the wheels turning on College Place school buses, even during the pandemic
Washington state health officials issue protective order against Walla Walla nurse
The Club in Dayton cancels spring break program
Crime stats 2020, Part 2: Walla Walla, College Place police chiefs implement new, diverse committees

Washington Post
Sorrow, hope, rage, pain: In Atlanta, photographer Hannah Yoon chronicles an Asian American community staggered by a mass shooting

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima Valley school districts favor shift to 3-foot distancing on campus; state decision yet to be made
Washingtonians 16 and up will be eligible for COVID vaccines by May 1, state says; here’s how we get there
Mandatory 10-digit dialing coming to the 509 area code
Conservationists sue to save spotted owl logging protections
Judge: Amtrak, not engineer, liable for deadly derailment
People asked to watch for Japanese beetles after sighting near Grandview
City fined in southwest Washington after council members go without masks

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Tacoma doctor removed from expert role in diagnosing child abuse amid questions about her credibility
Sea-Tac Airport gets busier as travelers credit vaccines and spring break as reasons to fly
As ‘vaccine chasers’ seek leftover COVID-19 shots, Washington health officials urge patience
Everyone 16 and older in Washington will be eligible for COVID-19 vaccine by May 1
King County to pay $5 million settlement in 2017 deputy shooting death of Tommy Le

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Washingtonians 16 and up to be eligible for vaccines by May 1
Surge of COVID-19 vaccine related scams, security experts warn
North Sound woman remembers police officer brother killed in Colorado shootings
46 inmates at the King County Correctional Facility test positive for COVID-19
Seattle women in tech work together to make industry more inclusive
King County Sheriff’s Office to pay $5M for shooting death of Tommy Le

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Homeless encampment near Capitol Hill middle school grows, while city faces questions
Over 50 infected in COVID-19 outbreak at King County Jail
AstraZeneca confirms strong vaccine protection after US rift

KNKX FM
‘Blue tides’ of sailor jellies on Northwest coast correlate with warmer seas in winter
Murray, Jayapal, Murkowski sponsor bill to improve care for sexual assault survivors

KUOW FM
‘Blue tides’ of sailor jellies on Northwest coast correlate with warmer seas in winter
Updates on the pandemic in the Northwest
Jerome Powell: Economy Is Better Thanks To ‘Dunkirk’-Like Rescue By Fed, Congress
Homelessness went up in the U.S. last year, and in Washington state
Environmental justice moves to mainstream as governments embrace cause
How the federal rescue plan could affect individuals, families, and the future

KXLY (ABC)
Spokane Public Schools braces for updated reopening guidance from the state
‘I was so behind, it was so scary’: Spokane man receives rental assistance from SNAP
SNAP offering rental assistance for people in need
Washington lawmakers support major disaster declaration in wake of winter storm damage

NW Public Radio
Timber Wars Continued: Conservationists Sue To Save Spotted Owl Logging Protections

Q13 TV (Fox)
Tacoma aims to crack down on street racing with proposed law
Washingtonians 16 and up to be eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccine by May 1, state says
Tommy Le’s family agrees to $5 million settlement in lawsuit against King County, deputy who killed him
Downtown Seattle hotel reopens as temporary homeless shelter
Local little league says children are threatened at Seattle parks
46 inmates at King County Correctional Facility test positive for coronavirus

Web

Crosscut
WA looks to end driver’s license suspensions over unpaid debt (Salomon, Cleveland)
Opinion: In Seattle and Atlanta, anti-Asian hate sparks unspeakable grief
Opinion: Why we should honor Billy Frank Jr. in the U.S. Capitol
Opinion: A Seattle doctor reflects on Atlanta and anti-Asian racism

MyNorthwest
State BLM coalition calls for suspension, review of Pierce County Sheriff’s officer certification
Proposed ordinance in Tacoma targets illegal street racing
West Point Treatment Plant in for $65 million makeover after sewage spills
King County to pay $5 million settlement over 2017 deadly shooting of Tommy Le
Seattle councilmember: Changing how city responds to 911 calls needs to be priority
Washington State Hospital Association CEO: ‘COVID is not done with us’
Two recent mass shootings reignite local, national gun control discussions
State Insurance Commissioner prohibits insurers from using credit scores to set rates
Bill requiring paddlesport safety course stalls, but boating laws still apply
Seattle traffic engineer: ‘Our street design is harming people’
Pierce County Council to conduct investigation into sheriff who called police on Black delivery driver
Seattle councilmember targets compromise on proposed SPD budget cut
Northshore educator insists Seattle attack was hate crime, says legal system ignores Asian Americans
Snohomish Lions Club reuses plastic bags for community benches

Slog
Guest Editorial: Washington Must Continue to Make Strides to End Youth Homelessness

West Seattle Blog
Why West Seattle’s city-run site is getting out of the testing business

Wednesday, March 24

Washington temporarily bans use of credit scores to set insurance rates
Washington state Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler has issued an emergency rule prohibiting insurers from using credit scoring to set rates for personal property for three years after the current coronavirus pandemic is declared over. Continue reading at KING 5 News.

Washington overtime bill gets House hearing
Farmworkers said Tuesday they are worried about losing money, joining employers in asking lawmakers to add a limited harvest-season exemption to Washington’s coming agricultural overtime law. Continue reading at The Capital Press. (Don Jenkins)

Boulder, Atlanta mass shootings stirring up gun debate in Washington state
The mass shootings in Boulder and Atlanta are igniting new calls for gun control and a heated debate all over the country. Here in Washington state, one high profile bill is still alive in the state legislature after previous gun control measures have failed. Eight lives were lost in Atlanta and 10 were lives lost in Boulder during back-to-back mass shootings. Lawmakers said the killings are a wake-up call. Continue reading at KOMO 4 News. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Print

Associated Press
Emergency rule bans credit scoring in Washington for 3 years
City fined after council members go without masks
Ex-Washington state auditor exhausts appeals, faces prison
US outlook improving as vaccinations rise and deaths fall
Masks and gloves are saving lives — and causing pollution
EXPLAINER: How states are seeking to loosen controls on guns

Aberdeen Daily World
New health director starts with plenty to do
GH commissioners pass resolution opposing Wild Olympics bill
U.S. vaccine hesitancy could mean 4.6 million more COVID-19 cases
As bill progresses, Rochester High prepares to again re-evaluate its native imagery (Lekanoff)
Commentary: If we don’t expand our democracy now, we’ll lose it
Commentary: Can we make an America in which affection transcends politics?
Letter: Mill Creek Dam

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Pot sales booming in Washington during COVID pandemic, report shows
All seven Whatcom regions see COVID infection rates decrease, but one remains above 300
Whatcom sees 25 new COVID cases, but state vaccine supply is ‘on the cusp of abundance’
Quick facts about housing in Whatcom County
Couples who filed taxes together could get stimulus checks in two payments, IRS says
High blood sugar may worsen outcomes for hospitalized COVID patients, study finds
Man who begged for ICE release dies of COVID days after he’s freed, lawyers say
Harris emerges from Florida visit with a leading role fighting COVID vaccine hesitancy

Capital Press
Washington overtime bill gets House hearing
Ecology hopes to expand dust mitigation group
Company applies to build massive solar, wind project on farmland
Conservation groups sue to reinstate ‘critical habitat’ for spotted owl

Columbian
In Our View: Keeping water clean is essential for future

The Daily News
Cowlitz County directs law enforcement to ignore ‘unconstitutional mandates’ related to Second Amendment

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Yakima parks reopen as part of Phase 3

Everett Herald (subscription required)
All Snohomish County residents could be vaccinated by August
Insurers told to stop using credit scores to set rates (Mullet)
Urgent responses to the Blake decision emerge in Olympia (Mullet, Dhingra, Jinkins, Hobbs)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
When will we declare victory over COVID-19?
When will children be able to get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Comment: GOP’s efforts to curtail voting may backfire on it
Comment: U.S. can power ahead as rest of world struggles
Editorial: State needs better watch on pet store puppy sales (Walen)
Letter: Working families need state tax credit

High Country News
These are your state’s gun laws
Can cloud seeding help the West’s drought?

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Pierce County Council will hire an investigator to examine sheriff’s conduct
Phase 3 means more hours and patrons for Kitsap businesses
Some police reform bills advancing through Legislature, others stalled

News Tribune (subscription required)
Text-based HelpKitchen connects Tacomans with 5,000 free meals a week
Here are Tuesday’s COVID-19 case numbers for Pierce County
To improve COVID-19 vaccine access, Black faith leaders opened up a Tacoma church
Court: Amtrak, not engineer, liable for deadly 2017 derailment near DuPont
Pierce council seeks investigator to examine sheriff’s run-in with Black newspaper carrier
Hello, next phase: Grocer, other area entities ramp up COVID-19 vaccine distribution
Editorial: Washington state Death with Dignity law is due for update. But how much is too much?
Half a stimulus check? Some confused after receiving only part of $1,400 payment

New York Times
Live Updates: ‘Shame!’ Schumer and McConnell Square Off in Voting Rights Hearing
Opinion: How to Reduce Shootings
Biden Seeks Assault Weapons Ban and Background Checks
Why Does the U.S. Have So Many Mass Shootings? Research Is Clear: Guns.
If the Economy Overheats, How Will We Know?

Olympian (subscription required)
The pandemic revealed the need for locally produced food. This Matlock woman stepped up
How many catalytic converters have been stolen in Olympia this year? 37, police say
Thurston County reports another COVID-19 death and 15 cases Tuesday
2 cases of South Africa’s coronavirus variant have been identified in Thurston County
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state

Peninsula Daily News
Clallam County courthouse offices reopening
Clallam County’s first roundabout slated
Clallam County PUD votes 2-1 to support Snake River dams
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Minimum age 18 now for Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe’s vaccine shots in Sequim
Column: The Orca Task Force

Port Townsend Leader
Jefferson County holds first mass vaccination event

Puget Sound Business Journal
‘Dystopian nightmare’ state of downtown scares off investors, Seattle broker says
SBA PPP loan forgiveness accelerates, new report shows
Microsoft global survey shows ‘hybrid work’ is here to stay
Opinion: Environmental goals and economic opportunity can (and must) co-exist
Study: Washington is one of the top-ranked states to find a remote job

Runta News
City of Seattle Continues to Vaccinate Older Adults in West Seattle, Rainier Beach, and Affordable Housing Buildings

Seattle Times (subscription required)
How Seattle’s COVID ‘vaccine chasers’ are lucking out — or getting left out
Seattle’s first hotel for homeless people opens downtown Wednesday; here’s a look inside
Former Washington state auditor faces prison over tax fraud
4 months after Pierce County sheriff’s theft call, Tacoma police take incident report
Washington insurance commissioner puts temporary ban on credit scoring for personal property insurance amid COVID-19 pandemic (Das)
America’s other deadly contagion has come roaring back
Pierce County Council will hire investigator to probe Sheriff Ed Troyer’s conduct
Editorial: Overturned drug law is in Legislature’s court

Skagit Valley Herald
La Conner School District narrows down superintendent search

Spokesman Review
Opinion: Shawn Vestal: ‘This isn’t who we are’? EWU president takes on the twin plagues of racism and equivocation about racism
Stimulating Spokane: Previous rounds of assistance checks went to essentials, savings; third round might be different
Officer ‘justified’ in killing elderly woman in jail lobby, Spokane prosecutor decides
Permanent fix to Peaceful Valley landslide threat likely months away, but city continuing South Gorge Trail work
Global Supertanker in prime position to soak wildfires in Western states
State and federal lawmakers push gun control bills in wake of Georgia, Colorado shootings

Tri-City Herald
Mother and disabled son safe after raging 3-alarm fire guts Richland duplex
Tri-City Americans off to 1-1 start in shortened WHL season
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Rural Walla Walla fire chief blames pandemic for getting caught in Tri-Cities sex sting
WSU COVID cases spike and Benton cases top 15,000. Vaccine appointments available
She was looking for her dead husband’s car when she pulled a gun, say Kennewick police
Benton deputies stop one suspected drunk driver and a 2nd sideswipes the patrol car
Tri-Cities trailing U.S. in vaccinations against COVID. More to be eligible soon
Didier calls for committee to help decide Tri-Cities school reopenings

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Washington state opens more fully in third phase; Umatilla County to begin vaccinating more groups
2 new coronavirus cases in Walla Walla County Tuesday, no new deaths
1,100 people, including students and teachers, vaccinated in second clinic at Wildhorse Casino
Indoor visits at Walla Walla long-term care facilities signal hope and return of normalcy
COVID-19 numbers remain low, vaccines up in Umatilla, Walla Walla counties

Washington Post
Terror in a Boulder supermarket: How the King Soopers shooting unfolded
Shootings spur Biden to call for tighter gun rules
Deaths from coronavirus on the rise worldwide after weeks of decline, warns WHO
Biden administration eyes extended ban on renter evictions as stimulus delays, landlord lawsuits loom
Nearly half of schools are open full-time, survey finds

Yakima Herald Republic
Many of Yakima’s fire trucks have been out for repair lately.The city is looking for funds to replace them
Former Washington state auditor faces prison over tax fraud
City of Yakima’s irrigation season begins April 1
Astria Health files complaint against former billing collection vendor

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington temporarily bans use of credit scores to set insurance rates
One year after Washington’s stay-at-home orders, a hopeful road ahead for some workers
Washington officials push to be home base for firefighting 747
Growing homeless camp on Seattle’s Capitol Hill underscores citywide issue

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Boulder, Colorado, mass shooting revives gun control push
Pierce County Council asks for investigation after sheriff called police on Black delivery driver
Emergency rule temporarily bans credit scoring to set insurance rates
Frustrations over lack of hate crime charges in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District attack
Redmond launches ‘You Stay, We Pay’ tourism program
Seattle councilmember targets compromise on proposed SPD budget cut
Lawmakers debate gun laws following Colorado, Georgia mass shootings

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
In some states, all adults are eligible for COVID vaccine. Should Washington state follow?
Not guilty plea by local alleged Proud Boys leader to charges linked to Jan. 6 riot in DC
Businesses still reeling from the West Seattle Bridge closure one year ago
Boulder, Atlanta mass shootings stirring up gun debate in Washington state (Kuderer)
Rainier Beach COVID-19 vaccination hubs aims to reduce vaccine hesitancy

KNKX FM
Emergency order in WA suspends use of credit score to set insurance rates for 3 years

KUOW FM
Updates on the pandemic in the Northwest
After Boulder Shooting, Vice President Harris Says Senate Needs To Act
New Data Highlight Disparities In Students Learning In Person

KXLY (ABC)
WA Lawmakers want to change the way sexually violent predators are released into the community
Emergency rule bans credit scoring in Washington for 3 years
Former Washington state auditor faces prison over tax fraud

Q13 TV (Fox)
Pierce County Council wants independent investigation of sheriff’s 911 call on Black newspaper carrier
IRS compensation means people to not pay taxes on $10,200 worth of unemployment benefits
City of Woodland fined after council members go without face masks
Federal Way Public Schools to offer in-person graduations for the Class of 2021

Web

Crosscut
Vashon Island isn’t avoiding vaccines this time around
Opinion: WA Senate must restore voting rights for formerly incarcerated people
City council backs off from deeper cuts to Seattle Police Department
More Black and Latinx people in Washington are getting vaccines

MyNorthwest
Washington State Hospital Association CEO: ‘COVID is not done with us’
Two recent mass shootings reignite local, national gun control discussions
State Insurance Commissioner prohibits insurers from using credit scores to set rates
Bill requiring paddlesport safety course stalls, but boating laws still apply
Seattle traffic engineer: ‘Our street design is harming people’
Pierce County Council to conduct investigation into sheriff who called police on Black delivery driver
Seattle councilmember targets compromise on proposed SPD budget cut
Northshore educator insists Seattle attack was hate crime, says legal system ignores Asian Americans
Snohomish Lions Club reuses plastic bags for community benches
Gov. Inslee, local leaders speak out against ‘horrendous surge’ in violence against Asian-Americans

Slog
Seattle Is Trying to Murder Rats in a Way That Doesn’t Also Murder Birds
Conservative Lobbyists Suck at Jokes (Pollet)

West Seattle Blog
West Seattle Bridge closure, 1 year later: 5 things happening now

Tuesday, March 23

Which housing bills are still alive in the Legislature?
Dozens of bills about housing are making their way through the state legislature. Several key tenant protection bills — including ones to end no-cause evictions, require payment plans, and guarantee every poor tenant facing eviction a lawyer — have passed their houses of origin. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Brandon Block)

Death with dignity act may undergo its first major change in Washington state
The Washington State Legislature is considering the first significant changes to the Death with Dignity Act more than a decade after voters approved the law. The act, approved as Initiative 1000, allowed certain terminally ill patients to receive a lethal prescription of drugs so that they could end their own lives. Continue reading at KUOW. (Ted S. Warren)

Inslee, other officials vow to act against anti-Asian hate, bias; King Co. devotes $5 million of its federal aid to effort
As state Rep. Sharon [Tomiko] Santos read out the names and ages of the victims of the Atlanta spa shootings Monday at Renton City Hall, she said it was important to “invite their spirits and their names to this space.” “In the aftermath of a great American tragedy,” she said, she invoked their names as a way to “to ensure that this is not a one-moment-in-time recollection. Because the fact is anti-Asian violence, anti-Asian bias and xenophobia have been with us in this country for centuries.” Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Erika Schultz)