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Monday, March 8

Washington Senate approves new tax on capital gains
Profits on the sale of stocks and bonds in excess of $250,000 would be subject to a new tax on capital gains under a bill narrowly approved Saturday by the Washington Senate. Continue reading at KXLY. (4 News Now)

Civil right to counsel bill passes Senate in preparation for end of eviction moratorium
With more than 134,000 Washington households behind on rent and Gov. Jay Inslee’s statewide eviction moratorium set to expire March 31, state legislators are racing to pass laws aimed at preventing a looming eviction crisis. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Michael Dwyer)

House Passes Johnson’s Use Of Force Legislation
After months of work by the families of victims of police violence, elected officials, law enforcement organizations and other community groups to answer the call for action in the wake of lives lost to unnecessary police violence, the Washington State House of Representatives passed House Bill 1310 by a vote of 55–42. HB 1310 was brought forward by Rep. Jesse Johnson (D-Federal Way) to implement a stronger law enforcement use of force statute. Continue reading at The Seattle Medium.

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Associated Press
Vaccine eligibility to expand to more groups on March 22
Washington Senate approves new tax on high capital gains (Cleveland, Hobbs, Mullet, Nguyen, Robinson)
55,000 in Washington may have to repay unemployment benefits (Keiser)
Washington Senate approves capital gains tax
Forecast for spring chinook up from last year, but still low
US states look to step up wolf kills, pushed by Republicans
Washington Senate approves new tax on capital gains (Mullet, Hobbs, Cleveland, Robinson, Nguyen)
Stocks rise broadly on Wall Street even as technology lags
Trump policy that weakened wild bird protections is revoked
Thousands in WA might have to repay unemployment benefits

Aberdeen Daily World
Mass vaccination site plans to deliver 2,700 first doses of COVID-19 vaccine March 11-13
Op-ed: Benefits of Chehalis Basin Process go beyond Lewis County

Auburn Reporter
Proposed bill aims to trade handcuffs for help when it comes to drug use (Davis, Harris-Talley)
House passes bill to increase financial reporting, transparency by healthcare providers (Macri)
Bills for police reform move through Legislature | Roegner

Bellingham Herald
Civil right to counsel bill passes Senate in preparation for end of eviction moratorium (Kuderer, Macri)
Personal data included in breach of unemployment claims dates back to 2017
People fully vaccinated against COVID can gather safely indoors without masks, CDC says
Here’s what state Fish and Wildlife says about 2021 Nooksack salmon runs
The number of homes for sale has hit a new low in Whatcom County. Here’s what that means
Whatcom 27 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, state says Saturday
Washington GOP lawmakers propose their version of a plan to reopen the state
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Friday in Washington state
Washington housing market among the hottest during pandemic, report says. Here’s why
How does obesity raise risks for severe COVID? CDC report looks at the data
Biden to establish Gender Policy Council on International Women’s Day. What to know
Biden signs voting rights order on ‘Bloody Sunday’ anniversary. Here’s what it does

Columbian
As virus cases stack up, numbers tell the story
In Our View: Infrastructure foundation to economic recovery
In Our View: Electric-vehicle bill is an important small step
Cheers & Jeers: Dogged effort; political gap

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
73 reported infected in COVID-19 outbreak in Yakima jail
Good water supply forecast in Yakima Basin

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Cornfield Report: Taxing debates on capital gains, police reform, evictions (Nobles, Hunt)
Gold Bar fire chief pleads for U.S. 2 traffic help from state (Hobbs)
County pays $104K to settle lawsuits against sheriff’s office
Lawsuit blames Snohomish County for 2018 jail overdose death
Every city may get a tax break used by Arlington, Marysville (Wicks)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
New vaccination site opens at Angel of the Winds Arena
Bloomberg: U.S., EU agree to suspend tariffs in Boeing-Airbus dispute
WaPo Comment: What’s missing from Biden’s plans to bolster the ACA
Editorial: Everett should wait on ‘no-sit, no-lie’ ordinance

Federal Way Mirror
Sound Transit issues draft environmental impact statement for light rail facility

High Country News
When state-owned land is publicly accessible — but not public

The Inlander
Despite wide swaths of our economy struggling, state tax revenue in the Pacific Northwest keeps increasing

International Examiner
Community groups call for more equitable COVID-19 vaccine distribution for people with limited English, technology access

Journal of the San Juan Islands
Reflecting on schools reopening

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Sheriff Simpson claps back at Rep. Kilmer’s support of police reform bill
Mobile clinic provides COVID-19 vaccinations for rural veterans

News Tribune (subscription required)
Gig Harbor chief says he is opposed to bills that ban no-knock warrants, limit immunity
State legislature weighs reforms to Multifamily Tax Exemption
Personal data included in breach of unemployment claims dates back to 2017
Editorial: Tacoma must reckon with all police use of force, not just kind that killed Manny Ellis

Olympian (subscription required)
Tumwater, Olympia, North Thurston get ready to launch hybrid learning for all grades
Thurston County adds 15 COVID-19 cases, weekly case total set to fall to new low
This resolution may declare racism a crisis in Thurston County
Civil right to counsel bill passes Senate in preparation for end of eviction moratorium (Kuderer, Macri)
Tax breaks helped fuel an apartment boom in downtown Olympia, with few strings attached
Washington state Senate narrowly approves capital gains tax after marathon debate (Mullet, Cleveland, Hobbs, Robinson)
Washington GOP lawmakers propose their version of a plan to reopen the state
First lady Jill Biden will visit Washington military bases
Trump policy that weakened wild bird protections is revoked

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Peninsula ready for school/childcare staff vaccinations
EYE ON JEFFERSON County to consider sixth policy on emergency response to pandemic
COVID death youngest on Peninsula
Op-Ed: Come together to save steelhead

Puget Sound Business Journal
Thousands of PPP loans are on hold. Now lenders are urging SBA to act.
Colleges emerge from cost cutting with varied plans for stability
Gridlock at sea, and chaos ashore, as pandemic snarls trade network
Inslee, Durkan ramp up pressure on teachers to return to the classroom
Opinion: Technology is the key to equity
Opinion: We can make homes more affordable, if we work together
Opinion: Roadblocks to US visas will hinder our recovery

Seattle Times (subscription required)
We may never reach herd immunity on coronavirus — but it probably doesn’t matter
After fierce debate, Washington State Senate approves new tax on capital gains by one vote (Cleveland, Hobbs, Mullet, Robinson, Nguyen)
Giant landfill in tiny Washington hamlet turns trash to natural gas, as utilities fight for a future (Ramel, Carlyle)
Spring chinook forecast up from last year in Nooksack River
The Seattle area’s five most-changed neighborhoods of the decade
Editorial: Extend Olympic wilderness protection

Seattle Medium
Nobles’ Bill To Address Mental Health Sentencing Alternatives Passes Senate (Nobles)
House Passes Johnson’s Use Of Force Legislation (Johnson)
House Passes Taylor’s Bill To Increase Access To Ride Shares (Taylor)

Skagit Valley Herald
Supreme Court ruling causes Skagit County drug cases to be dismissed
Skagit County seeks applications for economic development grants

The Skanner
Fully Vaccinated People Can Gather Without Masks, CDC Says

Spokesman Review
Fate of Republican Mike Simpson’s plan to remove Snake River dams lies with Democrats and Biden infrastructure package
When will in-person city and county meetings be back in Spokane?
Getting There: Downtown Master Plan revives idea of reconfiguring some one-way streets, but don’t count on it
How does gun violence affect teens? Gonzaga professor co-leading new federally funded research
Capital gains tax bill heads to House after passing Washington Senate (Robinson, Saldaña, Billig)
Dam power: Snake River dams are not big power producers, but play an important regional role

Tri-City Herald
This Tri-Citian collected taxes his whole career. Now he wants to decide who must pay them
Civil right to counsel bill passes Senate in preparation for end of eviction moratorium
Deadly year. Nearly 1 in 1,000 Tri-Cities area residents has died of COVID
Now open. New appointments posted for Tri-Cities COVID vaccines
Here are $50+ million of Tri-Cities hospital construction, expansion projects under way
8 people were inside a Kennewick house as the roof went up in flames

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
College Avenue corridor lit up with art by Walla Walla Valley creatives
Body cams arrive for College Place police while Walla Walla seeks funding solutions
Washington hits vaccine milestone as Walla Walla clinics continue

Washington Post
Celebrating female leaders
Biden directs fresh review of Title IX rule on campus sexual assault
Murder trial of Derek Chauvin, accused of killing George Floyd, begins in Minnesota
Opinion: Biden grasped what the media did not

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima veterans housing project on schedule for summer completion
Business owners in Yakima, Kittitas counties tackle pandemic challenges in Enterprise Challenge
Washington Senate approves new tax on capital gains
Opinion: Other views: Electric-vehicle bill is an important small step
Selah facing another lawsuit over allegation of illegal votes in closed meetings

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
King County health officials urge caution despite promising COVID-19 vaccine rates
King County to vote on $4/hour hazard pay for grocery workers Tuesday
Washington Republicans push for lifting COVID-19 restrictions sooner rather than later

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Seattle schools announce return for students without union agreement, sparking controversy and confusion
State Senate approves new tax on capital gains (Robinson, Nguyen)
Forecast for spring chinook up from last year, but still low
First lady Jill Biden visiting Washington military bases
Hundreds of Everett teachers get vaccinated
Hot housing market continues to be tough for buyers

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Washington hits COVID-19 vaccine goal of 45,000 doses a day
$1.34 million to help some WA students falling behind in school

KXLY (ABC)
Washington Senate approves new tax on capital gains (Cleveland, Hobbs, Mullet, Robinson, Nguyen)
Washington nears 100,000 dose milestone across state mass-vaccination sites
Washington now meeting Inslee’s goal of 45,000 vaccinations per day, Idaho also making progress

KNKX
CDC Says It’s Safe For Vaccinated People To Do These Activities
Dan Newhouse, Cathy McMorris Rodgers Seek To Boost Hydropower After Idaho Rep’s Dam Removal Idea
Oregon governor to order schools to reopen, but Inslee won’t make similar mandate
Grocery workers on deck: Vaccines for critical workers to begin March 22, says Inslee

KNKX
ONE YEAR INTO THE PANDEMIC, HOW WILL DOWNTOWN SEATTLE THRIVE AGAIN?
Anti-Asian hate crimes on rise in Seattle area, police say
Updates on the pandemic in the Northwest
WA Senate approves state capital gains tax proposal – Democrats’ holy grail a decade in the making
CDC Says It’s Safe For Vaccinated People To Do These Activities
White House To Work With Congress To Replace AUMFs With More ‘Narrow’ Framework
Friday Politics: Teachers can get vaccines but school’s still out in Seattle

NW Public Radio
States Look To Ramp Up Wolf Kills Following Previous Administration’s Move To Ease Protections
Washington Senate Approves New Tax On Capital Gains; Bill Moves To State House (Cleveland, Hobbs, Mullet, Robinson, Nguyen)

Q13 TV (Fox)
Washington families say $1,400 from new stimulus would make huge impact
Unpredictability of COVID-19 severity may come down to antibody response, study shows
Washington Senate approves new tax on capital gains (Robinson, Nguyen, Cleveland, Hobbs, Mullet)
Brandi Kruse: The pandemic is no time to turn away ideas
The Divide: Dangerous drug dilemma
Seattle school district and teachers union at odds about going back to school
Washington Senator proposes legislation to restore native plants at National Parks
Northwest wildlife agencies warn of invasive zebra mussels

Web

Civic Skunkworks
How to respond to the 5 most tired, trickle-down arguments against the $15 minimum wage

MyNorthwest
COVID updates: Variant likely behind slowdown of case declines, warns UW modeler
Washington Senate narrowly approves capital gains tax
SDOT finishes lowering speed limit on most Seattle streets to 25mph
King County health officer: ‘Be cautiously optimistic,’ but COVID risk remains
‘Worst of both worlds’: No easy fix for WA Supreme Court decision legalizing drug possession
Weekend vote expected in state Senate on controversial capital gains tax proposal
Gov. Inslee, Mayor Durkan push to get kids back in school ‘safely and soon’
Essential workers’ unions in Washington respond to updated vaccine eligibility
Gov. Inslee: COVID vaccine eligibility to expand in March, April as supply increases
Seattle teachers’ union votes not to return to class on Monday
Former Sonic James ‘Dukes’ Donaldson launches campaign for Seattle mayor

Slog
Washington Senate Finally Passes Capital Gains Tax (Mullet, Cleveland, Hobbs, Robinson, Nguyen, Jinkins)
Okay, Democrats Who Voted No on the Cleaner Fuels Bill, Explain Yourselves (Sullivan, Walen, Rule, Shewemake, Springer)
Editorial: As a Well-Off Tech Worker, I Want to Be Taxed on My Wealth

West Seattle Blog
GETTING VACCINATED: Openings this week at city’s West Seattle site, if you’re 65+

Friday, March 5

Entenman’s Bill Creating An Office Of Independent Investigations Passes House
On the first anniversary of the killing Manuel Ellis, the Washington State House of Representatives passed a bill to mandate independent investigation of deadly uses of force by law enforcement. HB 1267, sponsored by Rep. Debra Entenman (D-Kent), passed the House with a vote of 57-39. Continue reading at The Seattle Medium.

Governor: Farm, Grocery Store Workers, Others Will Be Eligible For COVID-19 Vaccine
Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday the dates in March and April when more Washingtonians will be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. These include police officers, public transportation personnel, grocery store workers, inmates, the homeless, and people with chronic medical conditions. Although the dates are still tentative, they offer details of the vaccination plan that started slowly but is now accelerating. Continue reading at El Sol de Yakima (available in English via Google Translate). (Ellen M. Banner)

Community groups call for more equitable COVID-19 vaccine distribution for people with limited English, technology access
Community organizer Sokha Danh has been helping Cambodian elders get vaccinated for COVID-19. The process has been frustrating – even though he is relatively tech savvy, and knowledgeable about the workings of the City and nonprofit worlds. Recently, with the help of a private Facebook group, Danh helped a Buddhist monk who lives in Tacoma get the vaccine in Seattle. The elders Danh helps often don’t speak English well, and may not know how to use a computer. Continue reading at The International Examiner. (Auriza Ugalino)

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Associated Press
US adds a strong 379,000 jobs in hopeful sign for economy
Dems trim jobless benefits, Senate debates virus relief bill
Seattle teachers vote to stay out of classrooms
Senate OKs bill for graduating students to take bridge year
Senate OKs bill prohibiting price gouging during emergencies
Washington state surpasses 5,000 COVID-19 deaths
WA vaccine eligibility to expand to more groups on March 22
Stocks swerve lower as economy, yield pressures heat up
Canada clears Johnson & Johnson vaccine, first to approve 4

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
The New Deal didn’t apply to all workers. It’s time for Washington legislature to fix that
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Watch: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee gives COVID-19 update Thursday
Whatcom County sees 13 new B.1.1.7 variant COVID-19 cases — second most in the state
More eligible for COVID vaccine as Gov. Inslee expands tier, gives new WA state timeline
Here’s how to make sure your COVID-19 mask fits well
Coronavirus weekly need-to-know: Spring break, ventilators, second doses & more
No, Biden isn’t to blame for higher gas prices, analysts say. Here are the real reasons

Bothell Reporter
King County could pass grocery store worker hazard pay next week
Inslee OKs use of single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Capital Press
Federal judge orders new Washington survey of farmworker pay
Washington Senate passes diluted environmental justice bill (Saldaña)

Columbia Basin Herald
Senate passes bills to raise fertilizer fees, reset pollinator task force (Liias)

Columbian
In Our View: County is making progress in COVID-19 fight
Clark County reports 33 new COVID-19 cases, no new deaths on Thursday

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Governor: Farm, Grocery Store Workers, Others Will Be Eligible For COVID-19 Vaccine
Vaccine Clinics: Fridays in Toppenish; Saturday in Richland for veterans

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Public speaks out against Everett’s ‘no-sit, no-lie’ proposal
Groundbreaking for the Mukilteo’s first mosque is Saturday
Last Everett-built Boeing 787 rolls off the assembly line
Vaccine eligibility to expand to more groups on March 22
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Cornfield Report: Inslee: The president made me speed up teacher vaccinations
WaPo Comment: Digital divide now clear in access to covid vaccine
Editorial: Reject Big Tobacco’s plea to clear nicotine’s name

High Country News
The long Western legacy of violence against Asian Americans

International Examiner
Community groups call for more equitable COVID-19 vaccine distribution for people with limited English, technology access

News Tribune (subscription required)
Tacoma police disproportionately use force against people of color, TNT analysis shows
Puyallup council member departs Puyallup Food Bank after three months as CEO
More than 100 new COVID-19 cases reported Thursday in Pierce County
‘So scared.’ Tacoma students share fears of soon returning to in-person learning
Teacher says he was trying to pledge frat, not Proud Boys, when he made controversial video
Editorial: Replacing Native American mascot is big test for this Pierce County school district

New York Times
The U.S. Added 379,000 Jobs in February as Hiring Picked Up: Live Updates
Live Updates: Senate to Debate Nearly $2 Trillion Stimulus Bill
One and Done: Why People Are Eager for Johnson & Johnson’s Vaccine
Pandemic’s Racial Disparities Persist in Vaccine Rollout
As Biden Urges Caution on Covid, Governors Split on How Fast to Reopen
Private Insurance Wins in Democrats’ First Try at Expanding Health Coverage
When Amazon Raises Its Minimum Wage, Local Companies Follow Suit
How Green Are Electric Vehicles?
In the Atlantic Ocean, Subtle Shifts Hint at Dramatic Dangers

Olympian (subscription required)
Need a vaccine? Walmart says it is administering the vaccine to those who are eligible
Mobile clinics bring COVID-19 vaccines to Washington’s rural veterans
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Thurston County reports 1 death, 14 more COVID-19 cases on Thursday
More eligible for COVID vaccine as Gov. Inslee expands tier, gives new WA state timeline

Peninsula Daily News
Ribbon cutting marks 100 percent vaccination for facility
Study: Chinook salmon are key to Northwest orcas all year
Suicide prevention team idea before House (Ortiz-Self)
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Officers: Peninsula ready for expanded vaccine eligibility

Puget Sound Business Journal
Treasury to invest $9 billion in minority communities
Mothers are regaining jobs, even while shouldering pandemic burdens at home
GSBA to launch 2nd round of relief grants for small businesses
Costco says it’s spent more than $1B on Covid-related expenses
Opinion: The next generation of leaders will lift us to new heights
Providence finds coronavirus antibodies transmitted through breast milk of vaccinated mothers

Seattle Times (subscription required)
What federal approval of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine means for Washington state
Don’t click on it: Unemployment scams flooding text and social media in Washington state
Gov. Inslee: Law enforcement, firefighters, grocery workers to get COVID-19 vaccines in March
Seattle considers creating a right to free legal counsel for those facing eviction
Washington state lawmakers advance eviction protections as end of moratorium approaches (Kuderer)
Washington state lawmakers grill auditor aides over disclosure of massive data breach (Keiser, Carlyle)
Editorial: State Senate should hit brakes on capital-gains bill (Robinson)

Seattle Medium
Entenman’s Bill Creating An Office Of Independent Investigations Passes House (Entenman)
Critical Workers, Pregnant People To Be Eligible For COVID-19 Vaccine March 22
Youth Attorney Access Bill Passes House (Johnson)

Skagit Valley Herald
State recommends that bird feeders be left down
Mount Vernon School District finalizes plans to bring back middle, high school students

South Seattle Emerald
King County, with second-lowest COVID-19 rate in U.S., still needs more vaccines
Elders of color face major hurdles getting COVID vaccine
State’s essential workers added with educators in qualifying for vaccine on March 22
Seattle educators overwhelmingly vote ‘no confidence’ in superintendent and administration
Opinion: There was more police accountability in Washington state during Jim Crow than today
Black Brilliance Research Project releases final report
Leader of Seattle Education Association reacts to bargaining over school reopening

USA Today
Biden’s relief bill isn’t getting bipartisan support like previous stimulus bills. What do Republicans dislike so much?
The Senate is debating Biden’s COVID stimulus bill. When can you expect help? Here’s what we know.

Washington Post
Opinion: I’ve lost three loved ones to gun violence. Only the one killed by police did not get justice.
Pressure grows on Biden to end the filibuster
State Department aide appointed by Trump stormed the Capitol, beat police with a riot shield, FBI says
Opinion: The MAGA phenomenon has never been about economics

Wenatchee World
Bill could provide tax relief to residents rebuilding after September wildfires (Liias)

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Western Washington veterans of all ages can get vaccine through VA Puget Sound
Some critical Washington workers to be eligible for COVID-19 vaccine in late March
Over 100 Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander elders vaccinated at 2nd dose popup clinic in Federal Way
One foster child cost Washington state $37,000 per month for his care, records show

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Critical workers in certain congregated settings will be eligible for vaccine on March 22
Seniors, others worry they’re getting left behind as WA expands vaccine eligibility
Bellevue dentist addresses racial inequities in dental care
Veterans of all ages can now get COVID-19 vaccine in Washington
Some luxury travel packages now include COVID-19 vaccine

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Gov. Inslee: State to expand COVID vaccine eligibility to more groups
15 more families join suit against Seattle Children’s over deadly mold
Suspect arrested in attack that occurred in Chinatown-International District, police say
Seattle grapples with widespread graffiti problem amid COVID-19 lockdowns
Families set sights on reform after losing loved ones in police shootings

KNKX FM
Rep. Pramila Jayapal teams with Sen. Elizabeth Warren on Ultra-Millionaire Tax
Study: Chinook salmon are key to Northwest orcas all year

KUOW FM
GROCERY STORE AND OTHER CRITICAL WORKERS CAN BE VACCINATED STARTING MARCH 22, INSLEE SAYS
WA awaits Johnson & Johnson vaccine as state surpasses 5,000 Covid deaths
Updates on the pandemic in the Northwest
Friday Politics: Teachers can get vaccines but school’s still out in Seattle
Senate Democrats Agree To Extend Unemployment Benefits Through September
A Sign Of Hope After ‘Winter Hibernation’: Employers Add 379,000 Jobs
Got Questions About Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 Vaccine? We Have Answers
Biden Administration Moves To Speed Up Processing Of Migrants In Family Detention
Democrats Tweak COVID-19 Relief Package In Hopes Of Speedy Senate Approval
Supreme Court Makes It Harder For Undocumented Immigrants To Fight Deportation

KXLY (ABC)
Spokane Schools hoping for mass vaccination clinic as state lays out plans to vaccinate more teachers
Washington essential workers can get vaccinated in a matter of weeks
Mayor Woodward sends Phase 3 proposal to Gov. Inslee
‘It is not a serious proposal’; Governor’s Office slams WA Senate GOP’s Phase 3 plan

Q13 TV (Fox)
Critical workers, pregnant people eligible for COVID-19 vaccine in late March
Washington state hatchery to rely on native steelhead trout
Bellingham mother demanding action on safety around homeless camps after a man groped her 11-year-old daughter
Seattle teachers vote ‘no confidence’ in superintendent, opt to stay out of classrooms

Web

Civic Skunkworks
Wealthy Americans Have Consolidated Power to Dangerous Levels. Now We’re at a “Crisis Point.”

Crosscut
Prescription prices could push Washington state into the drug business (Keiser, Van De Wege)
Why diversity is important among WA doctors and health care providers
Opinion: What it takes to recycle Styrofoam in Seattle

Slog
Pass the Public Option for Broadband (Hansen, Wellman)
Seattle Could Finally Resume Transit Projects Paused for the Pandemic and Tim Eyman

West Seattle Blog
LIBRARIES: One more nearby branch adds curbside service

Thursday, March 4

Washington state’s COVID-19 deaths break 5,000 mark on Wednesday
More than 5,000 people in Washington state have now died from COVID-19 as the state Department of Health reported 799 new cases of the disease and 24 new deaths Wednesday. Pierce County reported 64 cases Wednesday and one new death. Pierce County has a total of 467 deaths likely caused by COVID-19, according to the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. Continue reading at The News Tribune. (Ben Connors, Chad Scheer, and Ted Newman)

State Senate OKs bill to let graduating students make up for time lost to COVID-19
The Washington state Senate approved a bill Wednesday that would allow high school students in the graduating classes of 2021 and 2022 to stay in school for a “bridge year” to catch up on learning and participate in missed extracurricular activities. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Joshua Bessex)

Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders fight for COVID-19 vaccine access in Washington
Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders are fighting a different battle against COVID-19 than most communities. “In our community, our elders are sacred treasures, and so, I think to lose that many elders in such a short time is pretty devastating,” [Joseph Seia] explained. According to the most recent data from the Washington State Department of Health, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders have a four times higher case rate of COVID-19 than white populations. Continue reading at KING5 TV.

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Associated Press
Multi-state review group authorizes J&J vaccine
US jobless claims tick up to 745,000 as layoffs remain high
Washington state’s mountain snowpack piles up
Senate OKs bill prohibiting price gouging during emergencies
Study: Chinook salmon are key to Northwest orcas all year
Pacific gray whales spotted in Puget Sound
Washington governor signs graduation waiver measure
Washington state hatchery to rely on native steelhead trout

Aberdeen Daily World
Aberdeen District continues to roll out return of in-person classes.
Warning from PUD: Scammers continue to threaten power shutoffs
Commentary: A lesson from the last ‘normal’ pre-pandemic weekend: We’re not as smart as we think we are
Commentary: Can we reclaim lost decency and courage?

Auburn Reporter
Law gives Washington high school seniors leeway to graduate
Governor: Educators are now eligible for coronavirus vaccine
Study shows Washingtonians exceeded ‘heavy drinking’ threshold in 2020
First-time home buyers increasingly priced out of Washington housing market

Bainbridge Island Review
Experts expect economy to improve

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Watch live: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee to give COVID-19 update Thursday at 2:30 p.m.
State Senate OKs bill to let graduating students make up for time lost to COVID-19 (Hunt, Rolfes)
Washington state’s COVID-19 deaths break 5,000 mark on Wednesday
As state surpasses 5,000 deaths, Whatcom sees 1 death and 35 new COVID cases Wednesday
Vaccine update: about 5,000 more Whatcom residents now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine
WA ranchers struggling to meet demand during COVID pandemic closer to relief
Fentanyl overdose deaths climb in Washington, and cartels are to blame, feds say
Fake masks delivered to Washington hospitals worked surprisingly well, officials say
Pacific gray whales spotted in Puget Sound
How soon after coronavirus infection should you get a COVID vaccine?
Can you skip second dose of a coronavirus vaccine if you’ve had COVID? Experts debate

Bothell Reporter
DNR commissioner seeks $125 million to fight wildfires

Columbian
In Our View: Timing wrong for proposed statewide soda tax (Cleveland)
Reps. Stonier, Wylie co-sponsors of felons voting rights bill (Wylie, Stonier)

Covington-Maple Valley Reporter
Encouraging numbers for kokanee salmon spawn count

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Mental Health Professionals Urge “Practice Pause”
Yakima County to Receive More COVID-19 Vaccines This Week

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Inslee OKs use of single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Snohomish County Council delays education spending vote
Should Marysville Pilchuck High drop the name ‘Tomahawks’? (Wicks, Lekanoff, Berg, Lovick, Davis)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: Why those vaccine selfies are actually selfless

The Inlander
Outside Spokane, vaccine hesitancy and oversupply challenge the region’s ability to stick with a phased approach

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Kitsap teachers begin signing up for COVID-19 vaccine appointments
Review group authorizes Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine for Washington state

News Tribune (subscription required)
With 8 dead and hundreds injured, Tacoma grapples with how much police force is too much
The process: 3 investigations launched every time a Tacoma police officer kills someone
Registration is Thursday for Pierce County’s next COVID-19 mass vaccination event
Washington state’s COVID-19 deaths break 5,000 mark on Wednesday
These volunteers help senior citizens find that ever-elusive COVID vaccine appointment
What happened to body cameras for Gig Harbor police? Chief explains delay
Editorial: No selfies for you! Banning them inside parts of Washington state Capitol seems harsh (Pedersen)

New York Times
Covid-19 Live Updates: Pushback in States as Biden Criticizes Their Moves on Masks
Plan to Ditch the Mask After Vaccination? Not So Fast.
Texas Drops Its Virus Restrictions as a Wave of Reopenings Takes Hold
Now Making Electric Bikes: Car and Motorcycle Companies
Jobless Claims Rise, Showing the Pandemic’s Economic Toll: Live Updates

Olympian (subscription required)
State Senate OKs bill to let graduating students make up for time lost to COVID-19 (Hunt, Dhingra)
Washington veterans of any age can now get a COVID vaccination from the VA
Washington state’s COVID-19 deaths break 5,000 mark on Wednesday
Thurston, Providence announce clinic for those due for 2nd doses of COVID-19 vaccine
Red Lion protesters wanted FEMA funds used to house people experiencing homelessness in hotels. Why hasn’t Thurston done that?
Thurston County adds 20 COVID-19 cases; February case totals fall 50 percent from January

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Teachers, school staff and childcare professionals now vaccine eligible

Puget Sound Business Journal
Return-to-office plans are set in motion, but virus uncertainty remains
Facebook ends ban on political advertising
Opinion: Pandemic’s toll on community behavioral health must be recognized

Seattle Times (subscription required)
More than 5,000 people have now died from COVID-19 in Washington state
‘Functional bipartisanship is impossible’ — Washington state’s Democratic and GOP party chairs spar over elections, Trump
Lawmakers frustrated by secrecy surrounding massive data hack at Washington state auditor’s office (Keiser, Carlyle, Nguyen)
SDOT installs crosswalk, traffic signals at Lake City intersection where pedestrian was killed
Lessons learned at Life Care Center: Lake Washington Institute of Technology students remember pandemic’s first days
Highway 520 bridge closes in both directions this weekend
Opinion: Washington Privacy Bill needs stronger safeguards for consumers

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit Public Utility District vendor suffers data breach

The Skanner
WA Black Lives Matter Alliance Launches Reparations for Black Lives Legislative Push

Spokesman Review
Effort underway to decriminalize ‘magic mushrooms’ in Spokane
Spokane Public Schools wants public input on how the district can boost equity
Schoesler bill could provide tax relief to eastern Washington residents rebuilding after September wildfires
Downtown stadium one step closer to reality after Spokane Public Schools meeting
Local Catholic leaders say to avoid Johnson & Johnson vaccine made with fetal cells if possible, but health experts disagree
With teachers now in the queue, thousands of Spokane County residents will be searching for vaccine doses

Tri-City Herald
6,000+ Tri-Cities teachers, childcare workers join scramble for COVID vaccine
3 Tri-City police unions support recalling Benton County sheriff
WA ranchers struggling to meet demand during COVID pandemic closer to relief

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla County reports no new cases of COVID-19 for first time since June
Walla Walla County judge denies release for Leslie Moreno, convicted of manslaughter
Walla Walla County reports no new cases of COVID-19 for first time since June

Yakima Herald Republic
Vaccine eligibility is a relief for Yakima County school staff already on campus
Naches-based fruit company to contest unfair labor practice complaints filed by union
Study: Chinook salmon are key to Northwest orcas all year
Washington state surpasses 5,000 COVID-19 deaths

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Plan to prioritize Washington educators for vaccines leaves other workers frustrated
Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders fight for COVID-19 vaccine access in Washington
Sea-Tac Airport to test anti-drone technology
Judge orders release of Auburn Proud Boy charged in US Capitol riot
Kirkland college reflects a year after nursing students exposed in first US COVID-19 outbreak
Human composting: How Washington is writing the guidebook to a green burial
Assisted living operators in Washington holding out hope for federal aid

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Federal judge orders release of Auburn ‘Proud Boy’ charged in U.S. Capitol riot
Northshore educator seriously injured in possible hate crime attack
KIRO 7 investigates vaccine vacations
Seattle NAACP among dozens of groups now supporting full ban on credit scoring in insurance (Mullet, Das)
Police issue alert about possible March 4 plot against U.S. Capitol
Seattle police remove barriers, hit with graffiti on the same day
COVID-19 related deaths surpass 5,000 in Washington

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
‘5,000 lives were more than a number:’ Washington state eclipses 5,000 COVID-19 deaths
Federal judge orders release of local ‘Proud Boy’ accused of leading riot at US Capitol
WA 3-Percenters deny being part of rumored plot to attack U.S. Capitol
King County Court shifts to virtual trials, potentially changing future of courtrooms
‘He was trying to kill us,’ says man about attack in Chinatown-International District
WSP: No threats to Washington’s capitol after police uncover plot to storm U.S. Capitol
Homeless encampment, Tent City 4, to set up behind Bellevue temple next month
Pharmacies prepare as Washington teachers become eligible for COVID-19 vaccine

KUOW FM
‘Just another day.’ Seattle clears Denny Park tent encampment, forcing unhoused people to relocate
Updates on the pandemic in the Northwest
House Approves Major Election And Campaign Finance Reform Bill
House Approves Police Reform Bill Named After George Floyd
March 3 | Denny Park sweep goes against pandemic guidance
Senate Democrats, White House Agree to Tighter Income Limits For Stimulus Checks
Capitol Police Warns Of Another Possible Right-Wing Attack On Congress

KXLY (ABC)
Providence opens more than 1,000 vaccine appointments for upcoming clinics
Report: Spokane Police use force on Blacks, Native Americans at disproportionate rate
WA Senate passes a bill prohibiting price gouging during states of emergency (Darneille)

Q13 TV (Fox)
State educators anxious for COVID-19 vaccine after Gov. Inslee fast-tracks eligibility
Washington state lawmakers discuss $125 million wildfire bill
Local mom who lost son to drug addiction concerned over state Supreme Court ruling
Washington state surpasses 5,000 COVID-19 deaths
Sheriff’s captain suspended for post about Black teens
West Coast scientific panel approves Johnson & Johnson vaccine for Washington

Web

Crosscut
How virtual school is straining the mental health of WA students (Liias)

MyNorthwest
Port Angeles awaits Seattle lawsuit before drafting own grocery worker hazard pay proposal
Parler drops Amazon lawsuit, then files new one in King County court
Seattle-area Proud Boy facing charges from Capitol siege released from prison pending trial
Spokane judge intervenes to stop farm workers’ wages decreasing
Renewed push to crack down on repeat DUI offenders in Olympia
Rise in fentanyl overdoses has Pacific Northwest ‘under siege’ from cartel, says DEA

West Seattle Blog
VACCINATION: Last-minute openings for next two days at city’s new West Seattle site

Wednesday, March 3

Washington educators and child care workers can now receive the COVID-19 vaccine
Washington’s educators and licensed child care workers can now receive the COVID-19 vaccine, Gov. Inslee announced Tuesday, in response to President Joe Biden’s directive that those people be prioritized in vaccine rollout. “Phase Finder may take time to reflect these changes, but educators and licensed child care workers can schedule with providers right away,” Inslee said. Continue reading at KXLY.

AG Ferguson Releases I-940 Independent Investigation Inquiry Report
Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson recently released the I-940 Independent Investigation Inquiry Report. Ferguson’s inquiry into investigations reviewing police use of deadly force in the first half of 2020 found that the majority of investigating teams complied with most of the state’s new independent investigation requirements. However, some investigations failed to include at least two non-law enforcement community representatives and comply with other key requirements. Continue reading at The Seattle Medium.

Inslee signs bill allowing COVID-19-related waivers of some graduation requirements
Struggling Washington state high school seniors are getting a hand in fulfilling their graduation requirements, as Gov. Jay Inslee signed into law on Tuesday a measure to aid students whose education has been interrupted by the coronavirus pandemic. Roughly 70% of Washington students are still learning remotely. With online learning and a constantly changing situation, many high schoolers who were on track to graduate have fallen behind. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Dan Pelle)

Print

Associated Press
Official: Dems OK tighter income limits for COVID-19 relief
More contagious Brazilian virus variant emerges in Oregon
Washington state to surpass 5K coronavirus deaths
David Postman appointed chair of Liquor and Cannabis Board.
Washington educators, childcare workers eligible for vaccine
Washington governors signs graduation waiver measure
Gov. Inslee signs relief bill waiving liquor license fees
Inslee signs measure waiving some graduation requirements during pandemic

Aberdeen Daily World
Southwest Washington senators critical of bill prohibiting open-carry at protests
Commentary: Blessed are the listeners

Auburn Reporter
First-time home buyers increasingly priced out of Washington housing market
King County Elections seeks better voter turnout in historically excluded communities

Bainbridge Island Review
House bill extends curbside drinks until 2023

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Educators, childcare workers eligible for COVID-19 vaccine now after Biden directive
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Whatcom sees 20 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, significant drop in test positivity rate
COVID-19 infection rates show triple-digit growth in 2 Whatcom County regions last week
Whatcom sees 42 new confirmed COVID cases Monday, as vaccination rate begins to pick up
Whatcom sees 20 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, significant drop in test positivity rate
State recognizes Whatcom shorted COVID-19 vaccine doses, makes plans to catch county up
Use of deadly force inquiry omits Thurston region because agencies didn’t fill out survey
Washington flu deaths dropped from 114 last season to 0. There are a few reasons why
High snowpack in WA mountains following February storms
Tri-Cities legislator wants to end WA state voting by mail
Do all 3 COVID vaccines offer similar protection? Here’s what the data say
Mask Wearing 101: How to use and properly reuse a mask
Older Black veterans getting COVID vaccine at higher rate than whites, VA data shows

Capital Press
Simpson defends dam-breaching plan
WDFW: Check-in with governor before killing wolves just courtesy
NW onion prices, shipments mixed
Power company: Dam removal would hurt reliability, raise costs

Columbian
Washington governors signs graduation waiver measure

The Daily News
‘Looking good’: One-day smelt fishery serves up plenty of fish and happy dippers
Cowlitz County COVID-19 vaccine site opens this week, appointments filled in two hours

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Inslee: Teachers, child care staff in Washington can get vaccinated
Absences for vaccination appointments allow others to be inoculated

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Cornfield Report: Lawmakers — and 8,000 others — await a capital gains tax bill (Liias, Frame, Lovelett)
Governor: Educators are now eligible for coronavirus vaccine
Law gives Washington high school seniors leeway to graduate
County Council proposes to address a big pre-K learning gap
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Getting down to business during Women’s History Month
Comment: Vigilance now needed to stop surprise medical bills
WaPo Comment: Ruling to allow evictions an attack on federal power
WaPo Viewpoints: Getting beyond good cop, bad cop
WaPo Comment: As covid wanes, expect its political battles to grow
Editorial: Restore voting rights to those who served time (Simmons)
Editorial: Training, support must follow policing mandates (Pedersen)

High Country News
What tribal sovereignty means for Freedmen citizenship

News Tribune (subscription required)
Pierce County sees fewer than 80 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday
Washington flu deaths dropped from 114 last season to 0. There are a few reasons why
Family of man killed by sheriff’s deputy in 2018 sues Pierce County
Proud Boys member with Western WA ties was key leader of U.S. Capitol breach, feds say
Editorial: Will hybrid learning hurt high schoolers? Some in this Pierce County district fear so

New York Times
Covid-19 Live Updates: Texas Lifts Restrictions, Part of a Wave of U.S. Reopenings
Why the Georgia G.O.P.’s Voting Rollbacks Would Hit Black People Hard
Exxon Mobil’s Chief Says It Is ‘Supportive’ of Zero-Emission Goals

Olympian (subscription required)
Use of deadly force inquiry omits Thurston region because agencies didn’t fill out survey
Educators, childcare workers eligible for COVID-19 vaccine now after Biden directive
Thurston County reports 3 new COVID-19 deaths, announces plans for new vaccine clinic
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
MultiCare says purchase price for Capital Medical Center is $44.6 million

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Increased vaccine supply expected on Peninsula in April

Puget Sound Business Journal
Opinion: Pandemic’s toll on community behavioral health must be recognized
Washington state teachers now eligible for Covid vaccine, moving schools closer to opening
AWS helps address Covid vaccine fraud with new tracking system
The SBA’s PPP loan deadline is fast approaching. But pressure is building to extend it.
Virus did not bring financial rout that many states feared
Opinion: Federal minimum wage hike is long overdue

Seattle Times (subscription required)
King County Sheriff’s captain suspended for a day for offensive Facebook post about Black teens
A new neo-Nazi group in Spokane harkens back to era of virulent extremism in the Northwest
At Denny Park, Seattle is quietly trying to remove homeless encampment without police
Inslee signs bill allowing COVID-19-related waivers of some graduation requirements (Santos)
Washington state teachers, child care workers can now get COVID-19 vaccines, Gov. Inslee says (Pollet)
Editorial: Police must obey use-of-force laws (Nobles)
Editorial: Ban Native mascots in schools without Tribal support (Billig)

Seattle Medium
AG Ferguson Releases I-940 Independent Investigation Inquiry Report

Skagit Valley Herald
Looking ahead to federal COVID relief, Skagit County begins to discuss priorities

The Skanner
$500,000 Grant Funding Will Invest In Racial Equity In WA

Spokesman Review
‘It is exciting’: Multiple sclerosis vaccine could be byproduct of COVID-19 technology
Supporters of Spokane stadium say plan would save money and boost downtown, but time is running out
Teachers, child care workers eligible for COVID-19 vaccine in Washington following presidential directive
Thanks to effort to vaccinate the homeless in Spokane, one man’s shot will open door to permanent housing
Inslee signs off on law allowing state to waive some graduation requirements for students during pandemic

Tri-City Herald
Kennewick Police Chief Ken Hohenberg stepping down after more than 40 years
More COVID vaccine appointments open as Tri-Cities struggles to keep new cases down
This Tri-Cities hospital led WA state in COVID patient admissions
82-year-old wrong-way driver killed in I-182 head-on in Pasco

USA Today
Is universal income closer to reality? Cities from Stockton to St. Paul are already testing monthly checks for residents
Biden’s COVID-19 relief plan includes a child tax credit boost popular with Democrats but a ‘nightmare’ to Republicans

Vancouver Business Journal
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center adjust visitor policy to allow for limited visitor access

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla County jury finds Pasco’s Edgar Chavez Beltran guilty of murder
COVID-19 case rates ‘on downward slide’ in Walla Walla County

Whidbey News-Times
High court ruling in drug possession case has multitude of implications
UW professor floats idea for tunnel between Whidbey, Mukilteo
Coupeville Middle School students are returning to campus, but not for class
Police accountability bills push through legislature (Jinkins, Dhingra, Entenman, Salomon, Das)

Yakima Herald Republic
Federal judge’s ruling grants relief on farmworker wages
Yakima County COVID vaccine supplies increasing this week; educators now eligible
Yakima County commissioners approve more than $2 million in funding to help keep East-West Corridor work going
Washington educators, child care workers eligible for vaccine
Washington governors signs graduation waiver measure
Microsoft: China-based hackers found bug to target US firms

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington forms healthy snowpack after snowiest February in 20 years
Washington teachers now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine, Inslee announces
Renton teachers agree to resume in-person learning
Marysville students push school district for more mental health resources
King County prosecutors address rise in violence toward Asian Americans during pandemic

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Gov. Inslee immediately expands vaccine eligibility in Washington to include teachers, childcare workers
Concierge health care provider investigated over COVID-19 vaccinations
Seattle teachers union files unfair labor practice complaints against Seattle Public Schools
UW Medicine hopes to restart first dose appointments

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
COVID-19 vaccine: Washington teachers, school workers now eligible, Gov. Inslee announces
‘It breaks my heart:’ COVID-19, crime reshape Seattle and leave vacant downtown buildings
DEA: Pacific Northwest being flooded with fentanyl-laced drugs
Community groups question city’s response to clean up Denny Park as crime, chaos spike
Stranger attacks Asian couple in Chinatown as hate crimes spike in King County
‘We are so close:’ Experts sound alarm as Texas lifts masks mandate, opens up 100 percent
Health experts warn lifting COVID-19 mask mandate could create resurgence in Texas cases

KNKX FM
A small group of tech-savvy retirees hunts for vaccine doses for older people
School counselors in Pierce County make home visits to help kids connect to remote classes
Biden Says U.S. Will Have Vaccine Supply For All Adults By May, Prioritizes Teachers
WA House passes ban on chokeholds; backs off complete ban on tear gas (Johnson, Pederson, Dhingra)

KUOW FM
One year ago, Tacoma police killed Manuel Ellis. A silent march honored him
Teachers, childcare workers eligible for coronavirus vaccine in Washington state
Updates on the pandemic in the Northwest
Progressives Show Patience With Biden, At Least Until Relief Bill Passes
Some States Drop CDC Guidelines And Vaccinate People By Age Group
Biden Says U.S. Will Have Vaccine Supply For All Adults By May, Prioritizes Teachers
Prisoners eligible for stimulus checks, but getting payout behind bars is complicated
WA House passes ban on chokeholds; backs off complete ban on tear gas (Johnson, Pederson, Dhingra)
Biden To Allow Some Separated Migrant Families To Reunite In The United States

KXLY (ABC)
Washington educators and child care workers can now receive the COVID-19 vaccine
Lawmakers can’t cite local examples of trans girls in sports

NW Public Radio
Inslee: Washington Educators Now Eligible For COVID Vaccine Following White House Directive

Q13 TV (Fox)
Inslee: Washington teachers, child care workers now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine
King County prosecuting attorneys say local hate crimes are on the rise
Landlord says he’s owed nearly $30,000 in unpaid rent, has no recourse under City of Seattle
Parents and teachers disagree on how to safely return to in-person learning
City of Seattle schedules clean up of homeless encampment at Denny Park

Web

Crosscut
Family and friends wonder why Seattle police killed Derek Hayden
Why Salish Sea researchers are targeting superbugs in marine mammals
Seattle and all of Washington must extend the eviction moratorium
Opinion: How parks can better serve Puget Sound during times of crisis

MyNorthwest
Seattle council candidate drops out after report of 2015 assault surfaces
New orca baby sparks questions over Naval training
Educators, school staff added to current vaccine tier in Washington
Ski resorts experiencing both outdoor enthusiasm and challenges
Washington hospitals pact helps avoid being overrun by COVID patients
Counterfeit masks sold to Washington hospitals may actually be effective
Seattle teachers’ union files unfair labor practice complaints against district
Seattle Councilmember Sawant calls for investigation into Puget Sound Energy
Three vaccination sites to open in King County as dose supply expected to increase
Seattle opens up applications for commission tasked with redrawing city’s council districts
WA Rep. Jayapal co-sponsors ‘Ultra-Millionaire’ tax on nation’s wealthiest households
State lawmakers scramble to close drug possession loophole created by court ruling
State bill waiving liquor license fees ‘exactly the kind of help bars and restaurants need’
COVID-19 updates: State edges closer to key daily vaccination benchmark

Slog
Washington Has a Computer Problem, and Legislators Are Scrambling to Find a Fix

Tuesday, March 2

Washington House Passes Ban On Police Chokeholds, Backs Off Complete Ban On Tear Gas
Police officers, along with jail and prison staff, would be barred from using neck holds or restraints designed to restrict a person’s airway or blood flow, but the use of tear gas would still be allowed in limited circumstances under a bill that’s passed the Washington House. Continue reading at Northwest Public Broadcasting. (Parker Miles Blohm)

Tensions over vaccine equity pit rural against urban America
In some cases, recriminations over how scarce vaccines are distributed have taken on partisan tones, with rural Republican lawmakers in Democrat-led states complaining of “picking winners and losers,” and urbanites traveling hours to rural GOP-leaning communities to score COVID-19 shots when there are none in their city. Continue reading at The Yakima Herald. (Mark Humphrey)

Low-carbon fuel bill passes state House
A low carbon fuel bill passed the state House of Representatives Feb. 27 in a 52-46 vote with every Republican voting no. Its next stop is the Senate. The bill directs the Department of Ecology to institute rules that require refineries to produce fuels, like gasoline and diesel, to have reduced greenhouse gas output over time. Continue reading at The Bainbridge Island Review.