Click here for our Daily E-Clips policy.

Friday, February 5

WA scrambles to avoid mass evictions as moratorium nears end
Expanding tenant rights is necessary, said Rep. Nicole Macri, D-Seattle, because current state law is inadequate in the current moment. “Our residential landlord-tenant act never imagined — ever — that there’d be a circumstance where nearly 200,000 renters couldn’t pay rent at the same time,” she said. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Dorothy Edwards)

‘A basic requirement for modern life’: Hansen bill seeks to bolster broadband rollout
[Aline] Holmstrom was heartened to hear about the Public Broadband Act, a proposal in the Legislature this session, House Bill 1336, that aims to boost broadband rollout to get to homes like hers. The latest version of the measure, sponsored by Rep. Drew Hansen, D-Bainbridge Island, would allow municipalities like public utility districts, ports, some cities, towns and counties the ability to retail internet access directly to customers. Continue reading at The Kitsap Sun. (Meegan M. Reid)

Legislators introduce drug decriminalization bill
The new push to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of drugs like cocaine and heroin on Thursday came to Washington. Advocates and legislators announced the Pathways to Recovery Act, which would expand treatment systems and approach drug abuse as a public health problem instead of a crime. “No one has fallen too far to recover if only we give them a chance,” said Rep. Lauren Davis (D-Shoreline), a sponsor of the bill. Continue reading at KIRO7 TV.

Print

Associated Press
Washington averaging 28,000 COVID-19 vaccinations a day
Boeing to outsource IT work to Dell, eliminate 600 jobs
Grocery industry suing Seattle over new hazard-pay law
US employers add just 49K jobs, underscoring virus’ damage
U.S. trade deficit rises to 12-year high $679 billion
Biden approves federal disaster aid for Malden and Pine City
Grocery industry suing Seattle over new hazard-pay law
Johnson & Johnson asks FDA to authorize its 1-dose COVID-19 vaccine
Surprise tax forms reveal extent of unemployment fraud in US
US coronavirus deaths surpass 455,000; daily toll is stubbornly high

Auburn Reporter
Pay freeze for Inslee and state lawmakers this year
WA Democrats consider new tax on billionaires (Frame, Sullivan)

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
WA state health officials want you to cancel Super Bowl parties as a COVID-19 precaution
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington
Watch Live: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee’s update on Legislature, COVID-19 at 2:30
4 Republican Washington state senators announce formation of ‘Freedom Caucus’
Concerned about inconsistent COVID-19 vaccine supply, Whatcom asks state for details
Whatcom sees one death, 105 new COVID-19 cases, as vaccine supply remains short
Gov. Inslee: ‘These are not random decisions’
Side effects after your second dose of COVID vaccine may be more intense. Here’s why
Here’s how Inslee reacted to Whatcom criticism about Roadmap plan to relax COVID-19 limits
Coronavirus weekly need-to-know: Double masks, variants, second vaccine doses & more
Will Americans get more financial relief from Biden or GOP COVID plan? Study compares
Dealing with the vaccine supply challenge
Inslee: Pierce, Thurston among counties moving to Phase 2 as reopening plan shifts
Majority of Americans approve of Biden’s pandemic response, new poll finds

Capital Press
Researchers: State funds for soil health initiative could be in question
Aerial applicator fined for drift that made farmworkers ill
Washington Democrats push for ‘net ecological gain’ (Lekanoff)
U.S. potato industry looks to regain overseas market share

Centralia Chronicle
Inslee Touts Vaccine Progress and Defends Criticism From Democratic Lawmakers (Van De Wege, Tharinger, Chapman)

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Data-driven farming: New tech ‘changes agriculture’
Inslee: We have vaccine capacity, we just need the doses
‘Pallet’ village for Everett’s homeless could open in June
CORNFIELD REPORT Reopening gripes, fence frustrations and a wage freeze
Everett considers revenue-generating leases of city property
Pandemic slows growth of the clean-tech sector — for now
WaPo Comment: Local newspapers take Google, Facebook to court
Editorial: Maintain investment in higher ed and its students

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Frustration sets in for older residents searching for vaccine appointments
‘A basic requirement for modern life’: Hansen bill seeks to bolster broadband rollout (Hansen)

News Tribune (subscription required)
Puyallup School District looks to buy $2 million property for new junior high
Pierce County metrics need to hold or improve to maintain Phase 2; vaccine clinics ramping up
Pop-up donation centers keep the blood flowing in wake of COVID-19 shutdowns

New York Times
Live Updates: Biden Forges Ahead on $1.9 Trillion Stimulus Over Republican Objections
Covid-19 Live Updates: AstraZeneca Shot Found to Be Protective Against Variant First Seen in U.K.
Muddled Intelligence Hampered Response to Capitol Riot

Olympian (subscription required)
WA state health officials want you to cancel Super Bowl parties as a COVID-19 precaution
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington
Thurston County adds 24 COVID-19 cases; North Thurston announces more grades for hybrid learning
Appointments filled within 20 minutes for Providence vaccine clinic Saturday at the RAC
Bill in Washington state House would make tampons, pads free in school bathrooms (Berg)
4 Republican Washington state senators announce formation of ‘Freedom Caucus’

Peninsula Daily News
Bill mandating homeless shelters draws criticism
Bill proposes suicide review team
Feds: Member of Proud Boys arrested in Washington state
Washington Democrats push new tax on billionaires
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Washington averaging 28,000 COVID-19 vaccinations a day
COVID-19 cluster in Jefferson County swells to 22 cases

Port Townsend Leader
COVID-19 case count in Jefferson County rises by 7
Editorial: Back up, Gov. Inslee (Van De Wege, Tharinger, Chapman)
Residential care facility is source of new JeffCo COVID cluster (Van De Wege, Tharinger, Chapman)

Puget Sound Business Journal
Why new taxes may not be enough to close Seattle’s economic divide
Despite progress, Inslee warns ‘vaccine supplies are very limited’
Amazon opens Everett distribution center, with 4 more planned for Puget Sound region
Why are there so few Black economists at the Fed?
Federal aid for closed cultural venues will be a race for cash
As prices soar, some brokers ‘very nervous’ over housing market’s direction
SBA relaunches cash grant program for these types of small businesses
Opinion: Take steps now to address the affordable housing crisis

Seattle Times (subscription required)
With COVID-19 vaccine in short supply, confusion abounds over second shots
Washington’s 3 GOP representatives vote against removing Rep. Greene from committee assignments
Gov. Inslee touts vaccine progress and defends criticism from Democratic lawmakers on his reopening plan
Biden administration OKs Washington state counties for disaster-relief aid for wildfires
Opinion: As we aim for less reliance on cars, learn from those who don’t drive
Federal judge to Seattle City Council: Tread carefully with efforts to defund police or risk violating consent decree

Seattle Weekly
Pay freeze for Inslee and state lawmakers this year

Skagit Valley Herald
Mount Vernon City Council approves design contract for fire station upgrades

South Seattle Emerald
Community Police Commission appoints permanent director
OPINION: Skirting death by implicit bias at the doctor’s office

Spokesman Review
While experts advise staying home for Super Bowl LV, some Spokane bars and restaurants will be open
After months of Trump’s indifference, inaction, Biden approves disaster assistance for Washington wildfires, including Malden
Washington has the capacity to vaccinate way more people than the number of doses received
Shawn Vestal: Matt Shea, the Redoubt rock star, keeps riling up his followers for ‘total war’
Northwest Republicans oppose House vote to punish Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene

Tri-City Herald
What are the chances someone at your Tri-Cities Super Bowl party will have COVID?
Fire up your computers. Registration could open Friday for more Tri-Cities COVID vaccinations
56-acre Tri-Cities park nearly ready for hikers, with just one piece missing

USA Today
Politics live updates: Senate clears way to pass COVID relief, Biden to speak on economy

Vancouver Business Journal
January windstorm is reminder of value of diverse energy sources
M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust announces record year of giving

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Coronavirus update: Two new deaths in Umatilla County, 21 new cases in Walla Walla County
About 600 Walla Walla County residents vaccinated for COVID-19 Wednesday
Jurors selected; Leslie Moreno trial moves forward Thursday at Walla Walla County Fairgrounds
Michael A. Cavagna’s sentencing for eluding, gun possession delayed to ‘unknown’ date, time
Jurors selected; Leslie Moreno trial moves forward Thursday at Walla Walla County Fairgrounds
Walla Walla police officers nab couple on suspicion of burglary, drugs in early morning arrest
Walla Walla man Timothy L. Palmer, accused of child rape, gets bail reduction
State withdraws charges against Walla Walla nursing assistant

Washington Post
House set to advance budget plan as President Biden calls for swift action on economic relief
The economy gained just 49,000 jobs in January, as recover sputters amid pressure from virus

Yakima Herald Republic
Washington averaging 28,000 COVID-19 vaccinations a day
Not enough supply for mass vaccine clinic in Yakima yet; 18 other locations have received doses
Grocery industry suing Seattle over new hazard-pay law
Bill in Washington state House would make tampons, pads free in school bathrooms
Supporters say expanded sports betting in WA would add jobs
FEMA approves wildfire disaster declaration for Yakima, Kittitas counties

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Senate approves budget bill to pass Biden’s $1.9T COVID-19 relief plan
Washington state shifts COVID-19 vaccine strategy to boost access
Counties plead with Washington state to rethink reopening plan
Up to 32,000 homes in Bellevue affected by CenturyLink 911 outage
Seattle faces deep financial impacts from Canada’s ban on cruise ships until 2022

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Whatcom County calls out state over allocation of vaccine doses
Legislators introduce drug decriminalization bill (Davis)
Health officials worry about ‘super spreader’ events ahead of Sunday’s big game
Tax forms – the latest unpleasant surprise in the mail for victims of unemployment impostor fraud
Seattle cruise season in jeopardy after Canada extends cruise ship ban
Central area seniors rejoice after receiving COVID vaccine
After airlift, coma, and months in ICU, COVID-19 survivor is about to leave UW Medicine
Local congresswomen respond to House action on Greene
SPS return to in-person learning at start of March likely delayed
‘I don’t have a computer’: Seniors share hardships competing for online vaccine spots
Friends of disabled stabbing victim believe he was the victim of a hate crime
Washington ranks in Top 10 of safest states during pandemic, study finds

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
‘Historic level’ of court backlogs leaves criminals on the King Co. streets
Seattle planning mass COVID-19 vaccination sites by spring
Inslee sticking with regional phased COVID-19 approach despite growing criticism
Biden OKs disaster aid for Wash. towns destroyed by wildfire
Tension in Republican Party at U.S. Capitol impacts GOP future in Washington state
Rape cases increasing at alarming rate in King County this year

KNKX FM
Washington Town Wiped Out By Wildfire Will Get Delayed Federal Aid

KUOW FM
Pandemic blog: Updates for the Northwest
U.S. Adds Just 49,000 Jobs In January, ‘Not Anywhere Close’ To Recovering Lost Jobs
Senate Passes Budget Resolution; Vice President Harris Breaks Tie
One Thing Millennials Aren’t Killing? Public Transportation
Return to school expected to be delayed for Seattle students pre-K to grade 1
Johnson & Johnson Applies For Emergency Use Authorization for Anti-COVID-19 Vaccine
Federal Aid is Finally Coming To Washington Town Decimated By Wildfire
Washington billionaire tax proposal tries to find equity, includes ‘escape’ loopholes

Q13 TV (Fox)
Southwest Washington man charged with entering Capitol during siege

Web

Crosscut
The persistent disparities in accessing WA health care
WA scrambles to avoid mass evictions as moratorium nears end (Macri, Rolfes, Das)
Opinion: If you’re under 65, don’t hesitate to vaccinate against COVID-19
Billy Frank Jr. could replace Washington’s statue of Marcus Whitman (Lekanoff, Carlyle)
Podcast | Defund, then what? Seattle activists’ ideas for police dollars
Opinion: COVID-19 and the overwhelming demand for basic needs
Washington could become the second state to decriminalize drugs (Davis, Nguyen)

MyNorthwest
Federal judge rebukes Seattle council for running afoul of SPD consent decree in 2020
Washington now has capacity to administer 45,000 vaccines a day
Cold air brings ‘some potential for snow’ next week across Puget Sound region
Sawant claims police slowed investigation into threats, City and SPD tell different story
Grocery associations file lawsuit against Seattle to stop hazard pay
Advocates believe latest effort to expand WA sports betting has ‘a lot of momentum’

Slog
Cancel Your Fucking Super Bowl Plans
Brian Eno Knows Why Reopening Indoor Dining and Gyms in King County Is a Very Bad Idea

Thursday, February 4

First bill from state Sen. T’wina Nobles passes unanimously off floor
The first bill sponsored by state Sen. T’wina Nobles — who flipped a longtime-Republican 28th Legislative District seat to Democrat in November — passed off the floor in a unanimous vote Wednesday. Nobles is the first Black person to serve in Washington’s Senate in a decade, and represents Lakewood, University Place, DuPont and parts of Tacoma. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald.

Bill in Washington state House would make tampons, pads free in school bathrooms
Students at schools, colleges, and universities in Washington state could soon gain access to free menstrual hygiene products, such as tampons and pads, in their school bathrooms starting in 2022, if a bill up for consideration in the Legislature passes into law. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Abel Uribe)

Unemployment costs spiked for employers hit hard by shutdowns, but Washington lawmakers have approved help
Washington lawmakers, recognizing the massive strain on businesses already teetering on the edge of collapse, passed a bill last week to eliminate $1.7 billion in tax increases that over the next four years would have been automatically charged to employers whose workers went on unemployment. Continue reading at The Inlander. (Young Kwak)

Print

Associated Press
Grocery industry suing Seattle over new hazard-pay law
US unemployment claims fall to 779,000 but job cuts grind on
CDC says schools can reopen without teachers getting COVID-19 vaccine

Aberdeen Daily World
Mass vaccination site adds additional date Friday
SR 109 open again after state crews find ‘no significant damage that would indicate future slope concerns’
Commentary: How shocking that the GOP now has a QAnon problem in their ranks

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here’s what Whatcom’s elected officials are saying about Inslee’s COVID ‘Roadmap’
Whatcom’s latest COVID-19 location data shows positive results throughout the county
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Coronavirus updates: State passes 314k cases
First bill from state Sen. T’wina Nobles passes unanimously off floor (Nobles)
One mask or two? What’s one to do?
Dealing with the vaccine supply challenge
Time to mandate medical-grade or double masks? Experts debate as COVID variants spread
Pentagon reviewing how to better screen recruits for extremism after Capitol attack
About 29 million people would lose out on stimulus checks under GOP plan, experts say

Capital Press
Biden’s EPA nominee outlines his agenda
Raising radicchio’s profile worldwide
Washington lawmakers look at consensus bee bill
Potato industry survives huge backlog caused by COVID shutdowns

Columbian
Rep. Sharon Wylie of Vancouver will wait to see on billionaire tax (Wylie, Frame)
Declining COVID-19 cases move Clark County into ‘moderate’ activity range
In Our View: Billy Frank Jr. deserves place in Statuary Hall (Lekanoff)

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Pay freeze for Inslee, lawmakers this year; pay hike in 2022
Snohomish County’s boosted vaccine supply still isn’t enough
Indoor vaccination commences at Boeing Activity Center
Democrats repel GOP push to go bigger on pandemic aid plan (Ormsby)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo: Comment: Our youths have been left too long in the wasteland
Letter: That’s a no to a gas tax increase by Legislature

The Inlander
How computer glitches and server overloads for the Spokane Arena’s mass vaccination site actually resulted in more people getting vaccinated faster
Unemployment costs spiked for employers hit hard by shutdowns, but Washington lawmakers have approved help (Keiser, Billig)

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Plans for Ridgetop forest parcel moving slowly while COVID-19 has county’s attention
Kitsap has capacity for more vaccinations but not enough doses, health officials say
Graham: High school football games in jeopardy?

News Tribune (subscription required)
Two new vaccine events for Buckley, Gig Harbor. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Thursday
Sumner’s new council member to donate half his city salary to charity
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Here are Wednesday’s COVID-19 case totals for Pierce County
Firm proposes 64 recommendations to Tacoma police policy, including use of force rules
WA Proud Boys member charged in connection to Capitol riots has Puget Sound ties
Editorial: Unemployment data breach is bad, but Pierce County legislator places false blame

New York Times
Covid-19 Live Updates: As U.S. Vaccinations Speed Up, Cautious Optimism Grows
A Parallel Pandemic Hits Health Care Workers: Trauma and Exhaustion
Where Are U.S. Teachers Ineligible to Be Vaccinated?
Jobless Claims Decline for Third Straight Week: Live Updates

Olympian (subscription required)
First bill from state Sen. T’wina Nobles passes unanimously off floor (Nobles)
Thurston County COVID-19 cases trend lower as county announces 28 on Wednesday
Renata Rollins says she will step down when her term ends
Bill in Washington state House would make tampons, pads free in school bathrooms (Berg)
State Patrol looks for man connected to Jan. 6 Governor’s Mansion breach
Olympia building code change relaxes rules on ‘tiny homes’
Thurston County judge sets bail for 4 people in connection with Olympia hotel takeover

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Seventh COVID-19 death confirmed on Peninsula

Puget Sound Business Journal
Democrats press ahead on stimulus as Biden signals openness to changes
Amazon to pay $62M for stiffing drivers on tips

Seattle Times (subscription required)
To heal our collective trauma, we must first face it
Auburn-area man, a prominent Proud Boy, charged in Capitol insurrection
After nearly 50 days in a Seattle hospital far from family, COVID-19 patient to go home to Alaska
Grocery industry sues Seattle over new $4 hazard-pay law
Lawsuit filed against California firm over Washington state auditor data breach
Opinion: To heal our collective trauma, we must first face it
Editorial: Shameful vaccine favoritism worsens rollout’s inequities

Seattle Weekly
Proud Boys member with local ties charged for role in Jan. 6 riots

Skagit Valley Herald
Swinomish tribe vaccinates La Conner school staff
Sedro-Woolley announces reopening date for middle school
Burlington police, fire departments receive grant
National Guard assistance extended at Helping Hands Solution Center

South Seattle Emerald
OPINION: Does Amazon minus Bezos equal greater civic engagement?
Black Lives Matter at School Week: A list of picture books
VOICES: Seattle Children’s Hospital’s version of accountability fails to prioritize healing of Odessa Brown families

Spokesman Review
Some major health systems in Spokane County got no new vaccine doses this week
Spokane VA Medical Center ramps up vaccination of veterans 75 and older
Bill to expand state’s reentry program for prisoners passes Washington Senate
Spokane hospitals: No VIP vaccine access for donors, volunteers

Tri-City Herald
Hospitals see spike in COVID patients, but new Tri-Cities cases continue to drop
Help for Tri-Cities seniors registering for COVID vaccine
Editorial: WA Gov. Jay Inslee has too much power over COVID. Lawmakers must fix the law

USA Today
Young adults drive infections, but far back in line for shots; schools can reopen even without vaccinating teachers: Live COVID-19 news

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla to welcome middle school students to hybrid in-person schedule on Feb. 16
Vaccine’s arrival at Walla Walla grocery store pharmacies unknown
Jury selection Tuesday for Leslie Moreno murder trial reveals COVID-19 hardships
Walla Walla police officers nab couple on suspicion of burglary, drugs in early morning arrest
Walla Walla man Timothy L. Palmer, accused of child rape, gets bail reduction
Police: Pendleton man Richard A. Smith is on the run and may be in the area
State withdraws charges against Walla Walla nursing assistant
Michael A. Cavagna takes plea deal in case of police chase, Walla Walla crash

Washington Post
McCarthy moves to keep splintering GOP intact, with protection for both Cheney and Greene
U.S. infection rates are dropping; global vaccine trust is on the rise, survey says

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima School District will bring back grades for in-person learning in March
“High schools are unique.” Yakima County administrators share their plans for bringing students back to campus
How Yakima-area businesses can qualify for Paycheck Protection Program funding
Opinion: Data breach prompts conflicting information
Washington Legislature takes up excessive force by law enforcement

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Demand for vaccine ‘greatly’ outweighs supply in Washington
Washington lags other states in reporting COVID-19 vaccine equity
Like everything else 2020, taxes will be like no other year
Lawsuit over Seattle grocery hazard pay comes as some stores embrace it
Seattle member of Proud Boys arrested in Washington state after US Capitol breach
Inside look at successful mass vaccine site in Wenatchee

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Second dose vaccine appointments in short supply
Rapid COVID-19 testing pilot study shows few positives in three school districts
Vaccine sites feel ripple effects of second dose scheduling troubles
Local ‘Proud Boy’ charged in Capitol riots
Vaccine shortages cause pent up demand in Snohomish County
Microsoft opening vaccine site at Redmond campus
King Country Metro installing mask dispensers on all buses

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
King County ‘Proud Boys’ member charged in connection to DC riot
Grocery industry suing Seattle over new $4/hr hazard-pay boost
More teachers, prisoners getting vaccine in Oregon; seniors still waiting
SPD to announce new changes to department policies in wake of federal consent decree
Experts say COVID vaccine is critical in getting businesses back up and running
For those who need a second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, is there enough supply?

KNKX FM
State lawmakers consider bill to allow school districts to build teacher housing (Salomon)
LISTEN: Secretary of Health Dr. Umair Shah on vaccine access, some counties reopening

KUOW FM
‘Lay Low And Cool It’: Fauci Warns Against Super Bowl Parties Becoming Superspreaders
Pandemic blog: Updates for the Northwest
Alleged Seattle Proud Boy charged with storming of U.S. Capitol
Can’t get a Covid-19 vaccination appointment? Here are some tips — if you’re eligible
As Overdose Deaths Surge, White House Takes Steps To Build Drug Policy Team
Shark Populations Are Declining Toward ‘Point Of No Return,’ Scientists Say
Education Pick Miguel Cardona’s Message To Lawmakers: ‘En La Unión Está La Fuerza’
5 Hacks To Make Your Face Mask More Protective

Q13 TV (Fox)
New bi-partisan bill proposes expansion of sports betting outside tribal casinos in Washington state
Northwest grocery associations file lawsuit against Seattle over $4 hazard pay law
Lawsuit filed against California company involved in unemployment data breach
Troopers looking to identify man accused of assault during breach of Gov. Inslee’s mansion
King County Metro installing mask dispensers on entire bus fleet

Web

Crosscut
Podcast | An Oregon city’s decades-old alternative to police

MyNorthwest
Advocates believe latest effort to expand WA sports betting has ‘a lot of momentum’
Feds: Member of Proud Boys linked to Capitol siege arrested in Washington state
WA Employment Security Department whistleblower says she was told not to help people
Snohomish County grapples with frustrations surrounding vaccine scheduling, low supplies
WSP report raises questions over officers’ accounts of Manuel Ellis death
Seattle area ‘over a month ahead’ of a typical year’s rainfall to start 2021
WA businesses speak out against proposal to ban menthol cigarettes, curb vaping
‘I am 100% committed’: Mayor Durkan rejects calls to veto grocery store ‘hazard pay’
Jeff Bezos announces decision to step down as Amazon CEO
Washington lawmakers mull proposals to tax big businesses and billionaires
Healthy baby girl gorilla born at Woodland Park Zoo
Seattle council approves ban on gas heating in new apartments, commercial buildings

West Seattle Blog
What’s next for West Seattle’s low bridge, 3+ weeks into camera enforcement

Wednesday, February 3

Proposed ‘billionaire tax’ comes to Olympia, as Washington Democrats seek to revamp tax system
A new idea to flip Washington’s regressive tax system goes straight to the top: it seeks to tax the state’s billionaires. Sponsored by Rep. Noel Frame, D-Seattle, House Bill 1406 would apply a 1% tax on a state resident’s taxable intangible wealth above $1 billion.If passed, the tax, which would impact fewer than 100 people — but would raise a torrent of money. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Bettina Hansen)

In with Billy Frank Jr., out with Whitman. Statues should show Washington diversity
How refreshing that we can now talk about installing the statue of a great Washington leader inside the US Capitol Building. Better yet, it’s a leader who would build up the stature of Black, indigenous and other people of color in our state. Continue reading at The News Tribune. (Toni L. Bailey)

Washington plan shows vaccines for general public won’t begin until summer or fall 2021
New information from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has pushed back the timeline for members of the general public to begin receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, meaning life won’t go back to normal anytime soon. Continue reading at KING5 TV. (WA State Department of Health)

Print

Associated Press
Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s founder, will step down as CEO
Washington House allocates $2.2 billion in COVID funding (Macri)
Washington state eyes ‘billionaire tax’ on the ultra rich (Frame)
Farmers sue state over COVID-19 rules for migrant workers
Asian shares mostly higher, China markets fall back
LuLaRoe to pay $4.75M to settle pyramid scheme lawsuit
Stocks give up earlier gains, Google’s parent company jumps
Democrats urge investigation into removal of owl protections

Aberdeen Daily World
State House passes $2.2 billion COVID-19 relief package, heads to Senate (Sullivan, Rolfes, Ormsby)
Aberdeen teachers union files suit with school district for unfair labor practices surrounding reopening plan
New hires approved to help with mass-vaccination scheduling
Commentary: How the QAnon conspiracy seduces normal people
Commentary: One big reason your health insurance costs so much: Political cash

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington
Whatcom’s downtown jail sees first COVID-19 cases, but protocol changes prevent outbreak
As Whatcom’s limited vaccine supply persists, state reports 20 new COVID cases Tuesday
After a record month, Whatcom begins February with a death and 90 new COVID-19 cases
Safeway, Albertsons and Haggen WA sites to gain more COVID vaccine as rollout expands
Bellingham says it will clear homeless tent encampment near ball fields parking lot
WA farmers sue state for relief from ‘arbitrary’ COVID restrictions
Report: What needs to happen to prepare WA state schools for next major disruption
Biden administration urges people in the country illegally to get a COVID vaccine
Workers lose $17 billion in unemployment aid due to delay in Congress, experts say
Americans more stressed out now than any time since COVID pandemic began, survey says

Capital Press
Northwest Farm Credit gives $2 million to UI ag programs
How Biden’s push for electric vehicles could impact corn producers
Potato industry survives huge backlog caused by COVID shutdowns
Easterday Ranches files for Chapter 11 protection
Washington Farm Bureau, WAFLA sue state over COVID housing rules
Washington Democrats seek to nix tax break for H-2A housing (Saldaña, Lovelett)

Everett Herald (subscription required)
State House approves $2.2B for COVID relief; heads to Senate
Hands-on instruction in the COVID age is something to savor
Snohomish County’s boosted vaccine supply still isn’t enough
WSU Everett launches eighth undergrad program, in business
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Pandemic slows growth of the clean-tech sector — for now
Everett considers revenue-generating leases of city property
Editorial: Naming a state dinosaur worth state lawmakers’ time (Morgan)

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
WSF doesn’t plan to restore Triangle Route’s third boat until May
Central Kitsap School District adds electric touch to school bus fleet
USS Nimitz aircraft carrier has orders to return home to Bremerton

News Tribune (subscription required)
Vulnerable seniors ‘hunting and pecking’ online in search of scarce COVID-19 vaccine
Pierce Transit: Gig Harbor trolley is coming back, but no service for Key Peninsula yet
Here are Tuesday’s COVID-19 case totals for Pierce County
Tacoma’s leaders are elected to be a voice for the people. It’s time to unmuzzle them
Registration filled up in minutes for next round of COVID vaccine clinics in Pierce County
Editorial: In with Billy Frank Jr., out with Whitman. Statues should show Washington diversity (Lekanoff)

The New York Times
Missing in School Reopening Plans: Black Families’ Trust
U.S. Cities Are Vastly Undercounting Emissions, Researchers Find
How Climate Change May Affect Your Health
Jeff Bezos to Step Down as Amazon C.E.O.
Trump Loyalists Across Homeland Security Could Vex Biden’s Immigration Policies
Democrats Speed Ahead on Economic Aid Package
Burned by Low Reimbursements, Some Doctors Stop Testing for Covid

North American Post
Falling into Public History: My Writing about Japanese American and African American Community Stories

Olympian (subscription required)
Mayor calls Olympia hotel occupation “domestic terrorism”
Washington State Historical Society plan 2 virtual events for Black History Month
Thurston adds 20 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, vaccine clinics for seniors in the works
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington
Hypothermic man lost near Mount Ellinor rescued by DNR over weekend
Safeway, Albertsons and Haggen WA sites to gain more COVID vaccine as rollout expands
How wet was January in the Olympia area? It cracked the top 10

Peninsula Daily News
Clallam County blasts state’s reopening actions (Van de Wege, Tharinger, Chapman)
State House allocates $2.2 billion in COVID funding (Macri)
Vaccine supply may be cut to outlets that provide VIP access
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Clallam, Jefferson health officers counsel continued caution

Puget Sound Business Journal
PCC urges Durkan to reconsider ‘hazard pay’ bill for Seattle grocery workers
Snohomish County field labs will use startup technology to improve food resiliency
Despite losing billions, Boeing pays managers, executives a 2020 bonus
Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos stepping down as company rakes in record revenue
Amazon unveils plans for 3 more HQ2 office buildings, soaring ‘Helix’ tower
After $6.5B hit, Boeing warns many initial 777X orders have slipped into ‘at risk’ category

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Proposed ‘billionaire tax’ comes to Olympia, as Washington Democrats seek to revamp tax system (Frame)
Full investigation of Manuel Ellis’ death casts new doubts on Tacoma officers’ stories
What you need to know about the massive hack of Washington unemployment data
Does wearing two masks provide more protection?
On the front lines of vaccine favoritism in Seattle
Editorial: A lost generation of learners

Snohomish County Tribune
Police hesitant toward certain bills in Legislature that apply new controls (Ortiz-Self, Berg, Kloba)

South Seattle Emerald
Healthcare workers at Carolyn Downs protest executive director reinstatement despite allegations of racism
Washington study showing COVID-19 is deadlier for pregnant women, raises questions about vaccine priorities
South end legislators discuss their priorities during the 2021 legislative session (Hasegawa, Hackney, Bergquist, Nguyen, Cody, Fitzgibbon, Saldaña, Harris-Talley, Santos)
Judge rules city must pay close to $82,000 to BLM Seattle-King County lawyers for case against SPD

Spokesman Review
New research shows wildfire smoke can contain potentially hazardous microorganisms
Shawn Vestal: Unemployment chief’s terrible, horrible, very bad year somehow lands her a federal appointment
Spokane County wins $9 million grant for rental assistance, but advocates warn it’s not nearly enough

Tri-City Herald
WA launches investigation into 200,000 missing cows at center of Easterday bankruptcy, legal fight
WA farmers sue state for relief from ‘arbitrary’ COVID restrictions
900+ vaccinated Tuesday at Tri-Cities fairgrounds. Fastest day yet
Tri-Cities COVID case rate keeps dropping. New infections similar to November
No mask, no Tri-Cities flight. Federal travel mandate begins this week
Op-Ed: WA lawmakers should expand legalized sports betting (Liias)
Op-Ed: WA Employment Security Department is in need of dire reform

Vancouver Business Journal
Construction Forecast for 2021

Washington Post
Washington state eyes ‘billionaire tax’ on the ultra rich (Frame)
Proud Boys and Black Lives Matter activists clashed in a Florida suburb. Only one side was charged.
House GOP weighing fate of two members; Democrats take control of Senate committees
AstraZeneca vaccine shows strong effect against coronavirus with just one dose

Yakima Herald Republic
Safeway becomes a primary vaccine distributor in Washington
Yakima Health District OKs high school students’ return to campus part-time
Democrats urge investigation into removal of owl protections
Washington state eyes ‘billionaire tax’ on the ultra rich
State Senate takes testimony on more use of neck restraints

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Trader Joe’s goes nationwide with Seattle $4 hourly grocery hazard pay
More COVID-19 vaccines will soon be coming to Washington pharmacies and nationwide
New plan shows Washington won’t vaccinate general public until summer or fall 2021
Lack of supply forces Snohomish County to temporarily close vaccine sites

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
‘Running toward us is new’: Officers alerted to crowds rushing patrol cars
Jeff Bezos stepping down as Amazon CEO
Feds to ship vaccine directly to pharmacies
Activist group wants to out SPD officers at pro-Trump rally in D.C.
First ‘The Spheres,’ now ‘The Helix’? Amazon proposes spiral design for HQ2
Gov. Inslee visits school to promote in-person learning
Wearing a mask now a federal requirement for travelers
Seattle council approves ban on gas heating in new apartments, commercial buildings
Washington drivers ranked 4th most distracted in the country, according to report

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
‘It shouldn’t be like this’: Frustration mounts amid hunt for COVID-19 vaccine
Why aren’t teachers more highly prioritized in Washington’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout?
HB 1016: Proposal to make Juneteenth a paid state holiday (Morgan)

KNKX FM
Getting a vaccine is ‘kind of like trying to get concert tickets – you just have to be lucky’
Proposed statue swap of Billy Frank for Marcus Whitman signals changing of the guard (Lekanoff)
Jeff Bezos To Step Down As Amazon’s CEO

KUOW FM
Pandemic blog: Updates for the Northwest
Colleges Add More In-Person Classes For Spring, Amid High Risk Of Coronavirus Spread
A Rocky Road On The Way To Herd Immunity For COVID-19
Nancy Pelosi Calls for ‘9/11-Type Commission’ To Address Capitol Security
How Fast Will Biden Need To Move On Climate? Really, Really Fast
Jeff Bezos To Step Down As Amazon’s CEO
Senate Makes Alejandro Mayorkas First Latino Head Of Homeland Security
Biden Administration Will Ship Covid-19 Vaccines Directly To Pharmacies
Pete Buttigieg Confirmed As Transportation Secretary
Education Pick Miguel Cardona Is New To Washington — But Not To Classrooms
What’s Going On With All These Coronavirus Variants? An Illustrated Guide
FAFSA Applications Are Open. Here’s How To Fill It Out This Year
¿Cómo lleno la solicitud de FAFSA? Una guía bilingüe

Q13 TV (Fox)
Growing outrage, calls for accountability after state auditor’s hack puts 1.4 million people at risk
COVID-19 vaccine shortages cancels clinics, frustrates many
Washington adult family homes frustrated over vaccine delays
City of Lakewood honors African American ‘Hidden Heroes’ and their contributions to society
Outside agency provides 64 high level recommendations for Tacoma Police Department

Web

Crosscut
With vaccine questions looming, WA schools struggle with reopening
Opinion: Can WA lawmakers finally flip the state’s upside-down tax system? (Frame, Harris-Talley, Simmons)
Podcast | When police response to a crisis call goes wrong

Slog
Andy Jassy to Replace Jeff Bezos as Amazon CEO
Pete Buttigieg’s Plans as Transportation Secretary Could Transform Your Commute, Your Vacations, Your Groceries, and More
KCEN’s Participatory Budgeting Proposal Promises Lots of Process (Wellman)
Republican Senator Proposes Bill to Scare Teens Away from Communism

West Seattle Blog
Two boats on Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth route until May

Tuesday, February 2

House passes bill with $2.2 billion in federal COVID-19 relief after late-night debate
The Washington state House of Representatives passed a bill 61-36 late Monday that would allocate $2.2 billion in federal COVID-19 relief funding. The bill now moves to the Senate for further consideration. Continue reading at The Olympian.

Washington lawmakers passed a tax credit for working families in 2008. Is this the year they finally fund it?
Enacting the Working Families Tax Exemption would help communities of color harmed historically by racism and also help the state recover from the pandemic, said Margaret Babayan of the Washington State Budget and Policy Center. She, along with Democratic lawmakers, describe it as a good way to make Washington’s tax system less regressive. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Elaine Thompson)

WA Superintendent Reykdal unveils plan to vaccinate state’s teachers
Washington Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal announced a new partnership Friday, which will look to have the state’s teachers vaccinated by the end of spring. The OSPI will be partnering with Kaiser Permanente on the “Get Ready” plan, which will include 14 to 20 vaccine sites in both the Puget Sound region and Spokane. Continue reading at MyNorthwest. (TVW)

Print

Associated Press
Massive hack: Info of 1.6 million who sought unemployment
Opponents appeal gravel mine expansion near Anacortes
Data breach compromised info of 1.6M who sought unemployment
Construction resumes on $130 million Marina Square project downtown
Oregon becomes the first state to decriminalize possession of hard drugs
Broader stock market rises, but GameStop and AMC crumble
Hate groups migrate online, making tracking more difficult
Schumer moves ahead on Biden virus aid, GOP talks continue
Sequim mayor criticized over past QAnon comments
Vaccine supply may be cut to providers that give special VIP access

Aberdeen Daily World
Proposed $25.8 billion transportation plan hikes gas tax 18 cents (Fey, Ramos)
How did local state lawmakers vote in Olympia last week? (Van De Wege, Tharinger, Chapman)
Cosmo Specialty Fibers nearing full production after 8-month shutdown
Mass vaccination site to administer 975 doses Thursday
State Route 109 closes again after rocks fall onto roadway early Sunday morning
Commentary: Democrats should focus on families, not wages

Bainbridge Island Review
Initial jobless claims fall again in late January

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Washington parents would get big tax breaks under Biden’s COVID relief plan
Coronavirus updates: State reports 1,796 cases, has administered 600K doses of vaccine
‘How can I get a COVID-19 vaccine?’ Whatcom residents ask as rollout frustration continues
Amid shortage, Whatcom residents turn south trying to get coveted COVID-19 vaccination
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington
House passes bill with $2.2 billion in federal COVID-19 relief after late-night debate (Macri, Sullivan, Ormsby)
Auditor’s Office contractor was using 20-year-old software when security breach occurred
Data of 1.6 million who filed for unemployment may have been exposed in breach
3 Snohomish County vaccine sites close due to lack of doses
Fauci says COVID-19 vaccine boosters will tackle one mutation at a time
Biden administration ‘worried’ by limited racial data on vaccine distribution so far
Three coronavirus variants are spreading in the US. Here’s what we know about them
Reported hate groups declined in 2020 — but here’s why that’s misleading, report finds
Biden pushes for ‘equity’ over ‘equality.’ Here’s the difference — and why it matters

Capital Press
Washington Farm Bureau balks at upping pesticide fees this year

Columbian
Vaccine appointments in Clark County prove vexing
In Our View: Economic outlook uncertain amid pandemic

The Daily News
Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler to host COVID-19 telephone town hall Monday
COVID-19 restrictions keep Cowlitz customers stuck outside, while Lewis opens indoor dining
COVID-19 vaccine appointments at Ridgefield site fill up again as doses remain limited

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Reopening Day: Some businesses return with lockdown lifted
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Bloomberg: Comment: Why QAnon conspiracy theories seduced so many
Bloomberg: Comment: Stop doomscrolling and consider reasons for hope
Letter: Expand sports betting to nontribal cardrooms (Liias)

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Mason County deputy pleads not guilty to misdemeanor domestic violence charge
Teen charged in stabbing death of 16-year-old says she was defending herself
Vaccine clinic on pause after Kitsap fails to receive additional doses from state

News Tribune (subscription required)
Registration starts at 9 a.m. Tuesday for next round of COVID vaccine clinics in Pierce County
Auburn cops won’t be prosecuted in 2019 fatal shooting called ‘devastatingly sad’
Report: What needs to happen to prepare WA state schools for next major disruption
Editorial: It’s time for Washington Legislature to check Gov. Inslee’s pandemic superpowers
Op-Ed: Tacoma mom: Childcare access eludes families like mine with two working parents

New York Times
Live Updates: Impeachment Managers Call Trump ‘Singularly Responsible’ for Riot
Biden to Sign 3 Orders That Will Roll Back Trump’s Immigration Agenda
Even in Poorer Neighborhoods, the Wealthy Are Lining Up for Vaccines
Anyone Can Manipulate the Market. Here’s How to Fix That.
After Capitol Riot, Elected Officials Under Pressure Back Home
A Consensus Builder for E.P.A. When Some Want a Fighter

Olympian (subscription required)
House passes bill with $2.2 billion in federal COVID-19 relief after late-night debate (Marcri, Ormsby)
1 more Thurston woman dies of COVID-19, but county’s weekly tally is lowest since Nov.
State fines OneShare Health, bans it from selling insurance in Washington state
Auditor’s Office contractor was using 20-year-old software when security breach occurred
Washington parents would get big tax breaks under Biden’s COVID relief plan
Police make several arrests after activists occupy downtown Olympia hotel
Homeless activists occupy downtown Olympia hotel
Data of 1.6 million who filed for unemployment may have been exposed in breach

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Olympic Medical Center providing shots, staff at vaccination clinics
Jefferson Healthcare awaits COVID-19 vaccine
Clusters blamed for rising Jefferson County numbers
Bill would establish office to investigate police use of force

Puget Sound Business Journal
Lawmakers look at GameStop furor and see a populist issue to seize
Republicans pitch Biden on smaller aid plan as Democrats prepare to act alone
Seattle council OKs restrictions on natural gas use in some new buildings
What businesses should know about Seattle’s new payroll tax, according to experts
Another $97 billion? Putting higher ed’s latest request for Covid-19 relief in context
Third-party breach exposed personal, financial data of 1.6M state unemployment claimants
Opinion: Tacoma needs economic diversity more than ever

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Washington state tells vaccine providers: We may cut your supply if you allow VIP scheduling
Long lines, few vaccines as King County is under looser Phase 2 COVID regulations
Bill would replace Marcus Whitman statue at U.S. Capitol with one of environmental leader Billy Frank Jr. (Lekanoff, Heck)
Washington lawmakers passed a tax credit for working families in 2008. Is this the year they finally fund it? (Thai, Jinkins)
Oregon 1st state to decriminalize possession of drugs
Opinion: The Black girl who defied segregation, inspiring MLK and Jackie Robinson
Editorial: Many reasons to thank Washington National Guard

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit County schedules 100 vaccinations

Spokesman Review
Washington House passes $2.2 billion COVID-19 relief package, heads to Senate this week (Sullivan, Ormsby, Rolfes)
Requirement to teach ‘negative effects of communism’ sparks debate in state Senate
City of Spokane nearing public launch of shelter capacity dashboard

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities area COVID cases top 24,000, but number of daily cases falling
Tri-Citians lucky enough to get 1st COVID vaccine now worried about finding their 2nd
Op-Ed: SB 5051 brings unintended consequences to WA law-enforcement reform

USA Today
628 parents remain separated from their kids after Trump’s zero-tolerance border policy. Biden wants to find them.
Millions of Americans could lose their homes despite President Biden’s eviction moratorium order

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Justice delayed: Pandemic forces Walla Walla and Columbia County courts to adjust to virus restr
Health officials report more than 12,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine so far administered in Walla Walla Valley
Washington leads the way for more energy efficient homes, but what about the rise in housing prices?
Walla Walla man accused of child rape denied ankle monitor removal request
Chewelah woman arrested in Walla Walla for reckless driving, eluding police officers and obstruction
College Place man arrested after allegedly threatening woman, hiding guns in salt, dog food containers
Port of Walla Walla accepting tourism grant applications
Walla Walla Community College asks for public input on college’s future through online survey
City of Walla Walla launches virtual open house on bridge removals and replacements over Mill Creek

Washington Post
Amazon’s anti-union blitz stalks Alabama warehouse workers everywhere, even the bathroom
Trump’s actions described as ‘a betrayal of historic proportions’ in trial brief filed by House impeachment managers
Russian vaccine over 91% effective against coronavirus, peer-reviewed test results show
Poor handling of virus cost Trump his reelection, campaign autopsy finds

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima School District to bring back 3,000 students for in-person tutoring, other support
Agriculture groups say they’ll sue state agencies over emergency farmworker rules

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
As Puget Sound restaurants reopen indoor dining for Phase 2, new questions emerge
Washington COVID-19 hotline helps seniors book vaccine appointments
Phase 2 of reopening Washington splits restaurants along Snoqualmie Pass
‘Completely unacceptable’: Data breach compromised info of 1.6 million Washingtonians who sought unemployment

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Data breach compromised info of 1.6 million Washington residents who filed for unemployment
Olympia police chief says hotel workers felt threatened by homeless activists
‘Frustrated’: 88-year-old gets first COVID-19 vaccine shot, struggles to find second dose
Indoor dining resumes as more contagious variant arrives
Hospitals pause vaccine appointments, wait for supply
King County’s first mass vaccination sites open, but 75+ age limitation sparks confusion
Western Washington Gets Real: WSP working to diversify force
Navy SEALS to train in more than a dozen state parks

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Washington state reaches 4,300 total COVID-19 deaths
Portland virus experts say Johnson & Johnson vaccine could be a ‘game changer’
Washington’s student athletes back on the field for practice amid pandemic

KNKX FM
Data breach compromised info of 1.6M who sought unemployment
Seattle is state’s leader on climate-friendly building codes; new standards start March 15
Tax a billionaire, raise some cash? It’s an idea WA Democrats are floating (Frame, Sullivan)

KUOW FM
PEOPLE JUMP THE VACCINE LINE IN WASHINGTON STATE, AS HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS CAN’T GET APPOINTMENTS
Seattle bans natural gas in new buildings
As King County reopens indoor dining and fitness, Covid-19 experts advise caution
Pandemic blog: Updates for the Northwest
How Poverty Makes Workers Less Productive
Biden Administration Asks Supreme Court To Delay Considering 2 Key Trump Policies
The Number Of Hate Groups Declined Last Year — But Hate Did Not
Moderna Increases COVID-19 Vaccine Shipments While Pfizer Lags Behind
With Border Wall Construction Finally On Hold, Activists Worry About What’s Next
U.S. Cuts $231 Million Deal To Provide 15-Minute COVID-19 At-Home Tests

NW Public Radio
U.S. Makes $231 Million Deal To Provide 15-Minute COVID-19 At-Home Tests

Q13 TV (Fox)
King County launches push to deliver equity in COVID-19 vaccine distribution
Data breach compromised info of 1.6 million who sought unemployment in Washington
U.S. Forest Service: $45,000 worth of vital wildfire-fighting equipment stolen from guard station

Web

Crosscut
Washingtonians weigh in on Biden’s immigration agenda
Podcast | Past the dams, tribes help the Columbia River roll on
Podcast | Seattle police, social workers and mental health crisis calls

MyNorthwest
Seattle council approves ban on gas heating in new apartments, commercial buildings
WA GOP lawmaker calls for investigation into GameStop stock controversy
New WA data breach exposes personal info of 1.6 million people who applied for unemployment
Criticism of Washington’s Phase 2 includes unpredictability, inaccurate metrics
Sequim residents express concern after mayor appears to support QAnon
COVID-19 updates: Getting the COVID-19 vaccine ‘doesn’t mean you are invincible’
10 arrested during Olympia hotel sweep of group demanding pandemic housing
Three mass vaccination sites in Snohomish County temporarily closed for lack of doses
Navy SEALS to train in more than a dozen state parks
Over 10,000 people vaccinated for COVID at state’s sites in first week
Restaurant tents, gazebos to become permanent in Edmonds streets
Unemployment bill passes House, headed to governor’s desk
More contagious strain of COVID-19 now detected in King County
Local physical therapist: Neck, back problems arise from working at home
WA Superintendent Reykdal unveils plan to vaccinate state’s teachers
Head of WA unemployment office will assume expanded role at US Department of Labor
Seattle to join move to Phase 2, but ‘still cause for concern for our region’

Seattle P.I.
Seattle rents declined for months amid the coronavirus pandemic. Now, they’re starting to stabilize
Seattle City Council unanimously approves updates to construction and energy codes

Slog
Tacoma Children Have Summoned a Dinosaur (Morgan)

Monday, February 1

Washington Legislature sees record diversity as majority Democrats pledge focus on equity
This year, the Washington State Legislature has welcomed a record number of lawmakers of color, including a record number of Black lawmakers who are all Democrats. The increasing diversity comes in the wake of last year’s civil rights protests and amid ongoing demands for police accountability and racial justice. Continue reading at KNKX. (Austin Jenkins)

Bill with relief for Washington businesses, unemployed workers heads to governor’s desk
A bill that would increase the minimum weekly benefit for unemployed workers and curb an increase in employers’ unemployment taxes has passed the both houses of the Washington state legislature with broad support. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Tony Overman)

Senator Bob Hasegawa introduces Washington universal healthcare bill
Senator Bob Hasegawa, who represents Washington’s 11th District (Renton, Tukwila, part of Kent, SoDo, the Industrial District, Georgetown, and South Park), introduced a bill that would create a healthcare trust allowing everyone in the state to access affordable healthcare, vision care, dental, and mental health care. Continue reading at The South Seattle Emerald. (Alex Garland)