Click here for our Daily E-Clips policy.

Wednesday, March 10

The bills we’re tracking in the 2021 Washington state Legislature
As we hit the halfway point of the 2021 session, we wanted to help you track the policies that matter most to you. March 9 was the deadline for this legislative session’s policy bills to pass out of their house of origin. Bills related to the budget do not have a deadline, so even if a bill appears dead, it could come back to life later, if it’s related to the budget. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Dorothy Edwards)

Billy Frank Jr. statue one step closer to U.S. Capitol after House approves bill
A statue honoring the late Billy Frank Jr., Nisqually tribal member who championed treaty rights and protecting the environment, is one step closer to being on display at the U.S. Capitol. The state House of Representatives approved a bill Monday that would start a process to replace Washington’s Marcus Whitman statue in the National Statuary Hall Collection with a statue of Frank. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Toni L. Bailey)

Working families win; state is No. 1; dinosaur bill dies
Good morning. Lawmakers are shifting back into committee mode after a protracted stretch of voting concluded with Tuesday’s “house of origin” cutoff. A nearly unanimous House passed an expansion of the Working Families Tax Exemption, House Bill 1297. This program has been on the books since 2008 but never funded. Continue reading at The Everett Herald.

Print

Associated Press
State House approves bill for Billy Frank Jr. statue (Lekanoff)
Bill to create fund to battle wildfires passes state House (Springer)
New in-person start date pushed back for Seattle schools
Why the pandemic left long-term scars on global job market
Western states chart diverging paths as water shortages loom
The Latest: Fauci: US virus shots ramping up toward immunity

Aberdeen Daily World
Overstock, Port reach lease termination agreement
Expanded Child Tax Credit in stimulus could be ‘one of the most impactful efforts to reduce child poverty in decades’
Commentary: TVW is antidote for dwindling trust in media
Letter: Bill would help prevent suicides
Letter: It’ll take some smarts

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Washington residents could see a stimulus check quickly once Biden signs the economic relief act
House advances bill providing ‘just cause’ protection for renters (Macri, Peterson)
As Whatcom nears anniversary of first COVID, state reports 24 confirmed cases Tuesday
While COVID infection rate drops below 100 in one Whatcom region, 3 others see increases
Whatcom’s mass COVID vaccination site to open Saturday at Bellingham Technical College
Whatcom’s vaccination efforts beginning to catch up, as 36 new COVID cases reported Monday
First lady Jill Biden tours JBLM: ‘We want to know what’s getting in your way’
Clinics wait to vaccinate farmworkers: ‘Our hands are tied’
Grocery worker pandemic pay approved by King County Council
Jill Biden tours Whidbey Island naval air station
Volunteers are key at vaccine sites. It pays off with a shot
Looking for a COVID vaccine? This site can help find spares — but you’ll need patience
Is it OK to exercise before or after COVID vaccination? Here’s what experts say
The US just had its coldest February in 30 years, data shows. Here’s how it happened

Capital Press
Washington Senate passes revised ag overtime bill (Van De Wege)
Washington cattlemen sound alarm over wolf suit
Cosmic Crisp apple price plunges; COVID-19 hinders in-store marketing
Washington Senate passes capital gains, exempts sales of farms (Robinson)
Northwest wildlife agencies warn of invasive zebra mussels
Timber group, counties challenge delay of spotted owl decision
Washington Farm Bureau still ‘no’ on carbon tax (Lovelett)
Second half of Columbia Basin Project completion depends on ‘political will’

Columbian
Clark County Public Health worker is at forefront of COVID-19 response
Vancouver lawmaker who voted no on capital gains tax wants focus on transportation (Cleveland)
Clark County reports 18 new COVID-19 cases, lowest daily count since September
In Our View: Symbolism of noose is clear, intolerable

Covington Reporter
WA Legislature grapples with funding roads, bridges (Ramos, Saldana)

Everett Herald (subscription required)
90% of incoming vaccines are reserved for second doses
Everett, port in talks to resume Jetty Island ferry service
First lady visits Whidbey to meet with military families
Cornfield Report: Working families win; state is No. 1; dinosaur bill dies (Jinkins)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Boeing finally sees positive net orders for airplanes
Homecoming: Gray whales return to Whidbey waters
WaPo Comment: GOP’s opposition to naturalization will only hurt it
WaPo Comment: We must treat pyschic traumas of health-care workers
Editorial: Public health may see better funding, reforms (Robinson)

High Country News
Montana trans, two spirit and non-binary activists fight anti-trans legislation
Butterflies in the West are disappearing

International Examiner
API Legislative Week rallies around Asian-American led Working Families Tax Credit (Nguyen, Thai)

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
COVID-19 vaccine appointments finally plentiful for those eligible, but not for long, providers warn

News Tribune (subscription required)
Pierce County tenants can apply for $58.6 million in rental, utility assistance
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Pierce Transit considers eliminating hundreds of bus stops in hopes of faster service
All teachers now eligible for COVID-19 vaccines. What does it mean for reopening schools?
Editorial: You’ll soon pay Pierce County mental health tax. But leaders must fix mistake first

New York Times
Biden Got the Vaccine Rollout Humming, With Trump’s Help
Live Updates: Biden’s Stimulus Plan Is Hours From Final Vote
‘I Was So Nervous’: Back to Class After a Year Online
How America’s Vaccine System Makes People With Health Problems Fight for a Place in Line
The Officers Danced at a Black Lives Matter Rally. Then They Stormed the Capitol.

Olympian (subscription required)
Thurston County adds eight COVID-19 cases Tuesday, plans more mass vaccine events
COVID-19 even affects apples: Washington farm exports crimped by cargo-container shortage
House advances bill providing ‘just cause’ protection for renters (Macri, Peterson)
Data breach exposes information of more than 200,000 MultiCare staff, patients
Billy Frank Jr. statue one step closer to U.S. Capitol after House approves bill (Lekanoff)
First lady Jill Biden tours JBLM: ‘We want to know what’s getting in your way’
Will lawsuit stop Navy from training in WA state parks? Environmental group hopes so
Here’s how Thurston officials are responding to a landmark ruling on drug possession
Washington is the best state in US for second consecutive time, report says. Here’s why
Permanent Daylight Saving Time? Senate considers idea amid debate over pros and cons
Ferry owner has paid to keep vessel at Port of Olympia through June

Peninsula Daily News
State corrects information about pot licenses
Nearly one-third have had first COVID-19 vaccine shot in Peninsula counties
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance

Port Townsend Leader
No new COVID cases in a week as Jefferson County preps for more vaccine shipments

Puget Sound Business Journal
Businesses can’t apply for both PPP and venue grants. The American Rescue Plan Act fixes that.
Seattle still among nation’s most congested cities, even as traffic falls to historic lows
$73M wood innovation center coming to tiny Darrington
Microsoft hack escalates as criminal groups rush to exploit flaws
Nasdaq soars in ‘relief rally’ as big tech stocks rebound sharply
Boeing logs more jet orders than cancellations for first time in 14 months
Despite many PPP changes, this type of small business fell through the cracks

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Washington state Legislature considers clean-fuels standard as part of climate change ‘grand bargain’ (Carlyle, Hobbs, Fitzgibbon)
Lumen Field Event Center opens Saturday as huge COVID-19 vaccination clinic; here’s how it will work
Volunteers are key at vaccine sites. It pays off with a shot
First lady Jill Biden visits Washington military bases in support of families
The verdict is in on who did the vaccines right, Washington or Oregon. Hint: It wasn’t us.
Opinion: Drug treatment, not incarceration, better serves the common good
Editorial: Guidelines for the vaccinated give us cautious optimism
King County approves hazard pay for grocery workers in unincorporated areas
Opinion: Drug treatment, not incarceration, better serves the common good
Editorial: Guidelines for the vaccinated give us cautious optimism

Skagit Valley Herald
COVID-19: One year into a pandemic
Skagit Regional Health receives more of the COVID-19 vaccine
Group files appeal over Navy training in state parks

The Skanner
Volunteers Are Key at Vaccine Sites. It Pays off With a Shot

Spokesman Review
Pandemic relief bill would restore daily Empire Builder train service — and advocates push for more
Shawn Vestal: Our matching death rates suggest we’ve already had plenty of Idaho influence
‘It’s OK to not be OK’: Kids at Hutton Settlement get a show, food – and encouragement to open up

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities COVID rates among highest in WA state. What Gov. Inslee had to say about it
More contagious COVID variant found in Tri-Cities. First time in Eastern WA
Gov. Inslee praises reopening of Pasco schools during Tri-Cities visit
Tri-Cities COVID cases level off. More vaccine help for seniors and veterans
Tri-Cities teen jailed in knife attack after confrontation over Snapchat posts

Vancouver Business Journal
Business Growth MAP Alliance online forum focuses on positive organization

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Milton-Freewater council appoints Damien Reino, who hopes to honor legacy of Verl Presnall
Vaccination clinic at County Fairgrounds rescheduled, 3 new coronavirus cases Tuesday
Rural Education Support initiative launches at Dayton schools
Volunteer celebrates 81st birthday at Walla Walla COVID-19 vaccination clinic

Washington Post
Biden to announce that U.S. will secure an additional 100 million doses of J&J vaccine
Biden wants to sell the stimulus. The White House is still figuring out how.
Immigration arrests have fallen sharply under Biden, ICE data show

Yakima Herald Republic
Vaccines for child care providers could be a turning point – but first, they’ll need to find an appointment
Grocery worker pandemic pay approved by King County Council
State House approves bill for Billy Frank Jr. statue (Lekanoff)
Volunteers are key at vaccine sites. It pays off with a shot
Chelan PUD studies targeted power cuts to control wildfire risks

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington once again ranked best state in the US in national report
Reports: Biden to announce plans to order 100 million more Johnson & Johnson vaccines
Appointments slow to fill at some Washington COVID-19 vaccination sites
Issaquah School District starts vaccinating teachers and staff for COVID-19
Third stimulus check update: House set to pass COVID bill with $1,400 payments today
Cancer patients await eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine in Washington
VERIFY: Most of the COVID relief bill is directed toward COVID-related things

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Video showing banned restraint results in changes at Swedish Hospital
Data breach exposes information of more than 200,000 MultiCare staff, patients
Police response times rise in Seattle
Scientists confirm gender of orca calf born last year
Council approves hazard pay for grocery workers in unincorporated areas of King County
Washington ranked best state in country for second time in a row
Seattle Public Schools delays return to in-person learning until late March
First lady Jill Biden visits Washington military bases

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Victim of attack in Chinatown-International District says assault was hate crime
Seattle police response times slower because of officer shortages, acting chief says
First Lady Jill Biden reaches out to military families during Wash. visit
Health officials encouraged by positive COVID-19 trends in Puget Sound
Price for Seattle homes continue climbing in one of hottest housing markets in U.S.
Everett mulls ordinance that would outlaw homeless encampments in part of the city

KNKX FM
Seattle, Highline make progress in bringing some students back to classrooms
Here’s What’s In The American Rescue Plan As It Heads Toward Final Passage

KUOW FM
YOUR PRIVACY AND YOUR SEATTLE COMMUTE: POTENTIAL DARK SIDE TO CITY DATA MONITORING
Pandemic updates for the Northwest
Nearly 1 in 3 Women Experience Violence: Landmark Report From WHO
Biden Moves To Make It Illegal (Again) To Accidentally Kill Migratory Birds
States Try To Push Out Billions Of Emergency Rental Aid To Families
Postal Service Delivered Vast Majority Of Mail Ballots On Time, Report Finds

KXLY (ABC)
North Central High School student helps create bill to remove Native American mascots
New research shows third shift workers may have heightened health concerns
Providence opens 1,000 vaccine appointments for upcoming clinic
Spokane Police aiming to reduce property crimes through crime prevention missions

NW Public Radio
The Secret Life Of Trees: Researchers Probe Methane In Washington’s Coastal Forests

Q13 TV (Fox)
Cyberattack impacts 200,000 people connected to MultiCare Health Systems
House again set to vote on COVID-19 relief bill
Pollution solution digs deep; $500M+ project aims to bring Seattle’s waterways into federal compliance
First Lady Jill Biden tours Whidbey Island naval base and Joint Base Lewis-McChord
Bill to create fund to battle wildfires passes state House (Springer)
Washington named best state in America for the second year in a row

Web

Crosscut
The bills we’re tracking in the 2021 Washington state Legislature
Shuttered and stressed, WA arts organizations are running out of cash
Amazon tells Gov. Inslee it supports a clean fuel standard in WA (Fitzgibbon, Carlyle, Hobbs)

MyNorthwest
As council eyes $5.4 million in further police cuts, SPD and mayor warn of dire impact
King County Council establishes grocery store hazard pay for unincorporated areas
Seattle teachers, district reach deal to delay start of in-person classes to late March
King County Council establishes grocery store hazard pay for unincorporated areas
Seattle teachers, district reach deal to delay start of in-person classes to late March
UW modeler: Yearly surges could make COVID a ‘persistent and seasonal’ affair
3 feet should be default distance for schools, say district leaders

Slog
The King County Council Wants to Avoid Creating Food Deserts with its Grocery Hazard Pay Ordinance

West Seattle Blog
Jack Block Park pier may need to be rebuilt
Progress in Seattle Public Schools standoff over next step in resuming in-person learning, but no student return before March 29

Tuesday, March 9

People of color across Cascadia speak up against climate change
Communities of color, low-income people and other marginalized groups are disproportionately impacted by the effects of climate change, according to community activists across Cascadia. From country towns like Talent to the diverse urban landscape of South Seattle, activists say the government is not yet fully hearing from the long-marginalized communities feeling the biggest effects of climate change. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Denise Baratta)

Washington is the best state for the second year in a row. Obviously!
Everyone knows the Pacific Northwest is the best and Washington is the best of the best, especially compared to other states. But that seems kind of mean and elitist, so we don’t talk about it too much among our friends from other states, right? Right? Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Greg Gilbert)

Washington House approves measure to limit evictions
The Washington House has approved a measure that would require landlords to provide a valid reason for ending certain leases with tenants. The bill advanced out of the Democratic-led chamber Sunday on a mostly party line 54-44 vote, The Seattle Times reported. It now heads to the Senate for consideration. Continue reading at The Yakima Herald.

Print

Associated Press
Jill Biden arrives in Washington state, will tour NAS Whidbey
Washington House approves measure to limit evictions
Over 2M doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered in Washington
Jill Biden arrives in Washington state to tour bases
Washington House approves measure to limit evictions
Technology rebound leads stocks higher on Wall Street

Aberdeen Daily World
County’s mass vax signup process will change
How local legislators voted in Olympia (Fitzgibbon, Van De Wege, Tharinger, Chapman)
Commentary: Workers at one Amazon warehouse could change the union landscape

Auburn Reporter
WA Legislature grapples with funding roads, bridges (Ramos, Saldaña)

Bainbridge Island Review
More protections for renters, but not property owners (Macri, Kuderer)

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Environmental group sues Washington State Parks over proposed Navy training
Washington state reports more than 400 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday
PeaceHealth says it expects to receive fewer COVID vaccine doses this week for Whatcom
It’s a girl! Baby orca off Washington coast critical to population growth, experts say
Idaho man thought ‘the virus would disappear the day after the election.’ He was wrong
Billy Frank Jr. statue one step closer to U.S. Capitol after House approves bill (Lekanoff)
Washington is the best state in US for second consecutive time, report says. Here’s why
Washington state Republicans announce their own reopening plan
Whatcom’s vaccination efforts beginning to catch up, as 36 new COVID cases reported Monday
People fully vaccinated against COVID can gather safely indoors without masks, CDC says
Up to $3,600-per-child tax credit in stimulus plan could lift millions out of poverty
Can a pill help you fight COVID? Early study results suggest it’s possible

Columbian
In Our View: Bill ensures public lands available for future

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Virtual talk will be held in Spanish about COVID-19, vaccine

Everett Herald (subscription required)
What candidates say, wear in voter pamphlets may change (Bergquist)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Dozens may have been under-vaccinated in Port Townsend error

High Country News
Who should pay for conservation?
Invasive mussels in aquarium supplies alarm wildlife managers

New York Times
Pandemic Relief Bill Fulfills Biden’s Promise to Expand Obamacare, for Two Years
A Year Later, Who Is Back to Work and Who Is Not?
Move Over, Nerds. It’s the Politicians’ Economy Now.
How Biden Is Trying to Help Working-Class Voters in Red-State Alabama

Peninsula Daily News
Jefferson PUD eyeing expanded high-speed internet access
State Supreme Court’s Blake decision could be costly
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Peninsula counties drop into low-risk category
Peninsula ready for school/childcare staff vaccinations

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

Seattle Times (subscription required)
COVID-19 even affects apples: Washington farm exports crimped by cargo-container shortage
Bill to limit evictions in Washington state advances (Macri)
How the fracture in Republican Party could affect Southwest Washington
Washington state Legislature considers clean-fuels standard as part of climate change ‘grand bargain’ (Carlyle, Hobbs)
Washington is the best state for the second year in a row. Obviously!
To serve kids in the pandemic, a tribe and a Washington school district create a unique learning space
USS Nimitz, first Navy aircraft carrier deployed amid pandemic, returns to Bremerton
Opinion: Rise of variants underscores importance of COVID-19 vaccination

South Seattle Emerald
City Council bill would relax constraints on home-based businesses
OPINION: they’re raising grandkids with little help, and during a pandemic. can’t we lend them a hand? (Wilson)
Democratic state senate sends capital gains tax to house (Robinson, Hobbs, Mullet, Cleveland, Liias, Carlyle, Frockt, Hasegawa, Nguyen, Pedersen, Saldaña, Frame)
Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic: A glimpse back may offer a path forward
Weekend Long Reads: What impact did COVID-19 have on crime?
Friendly Hmong Farms: Supporting Puget Sound Hmong farmers with a new CSA
County not out of woods yet, as case rates plateau and variant gains traction
With Washington’s drug possession law gone, lawmakers at odds over next steps (Goodman, Mullet, Dhingra, Davis)

Spokesman Review
CDC opens up local household gathering options for vaccinated people
State House passes new version of bill aimed at public health reforms (Riccelli)
Spokane Parks announces plan to reopen aquatic centers
With gang violence on the rise, Spokane-area law enforcement leaders call for community action

Washington Post
Millions more smokers and ex-smokers should receive free annual screenings for lung cancer, a federally appointed task force says
A viral tsunami: How the underestimated coronavirus took over the world
How U.S. aid for reproductive health could change under Biden
Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine neutralizes Brazil variant in lab study as experts warn of rapid spread

Yakima Herald Republic
Improvements underway at Naches park, with more planned
Fully vaccinated people can gather without masks, CDC says
Over 2M doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered in Washington
Washington House approves measure to limit evictions
Chelan PUD studies targeted power cuts to control wildfire risks
More awareness of missing and murdered Indigenous people, but advocates say more action is needed

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Tribes and government agencies accuse Seattle City Light of using ‘flawed’ science on Skagit River dams
Over 2 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered in Washington
Puget Sound partnership helps underserved communities get COVID-19 vaccine
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden in Washington state for visits to JBLM, Whidbey Island
Seattle teachers, district spar over safety, days before classrooms set to reopen

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Fully vaccinated? Seattle docs explain what you can and can’t do, plus the risks
Vaccination appointments open this week for people 65 and up living in West, South or Central Seattle
Battered restaurants look forward to federal relief
Over 2M doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered in Washington
Parents of Seattle special education students plan for in-person learning
Washington state sued for allowing military training in state parks
WA state highways are trashed. Don’t expect the litter to be cleaned up any time soon

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
First Lady Jill Biden visits Pacific Northwest, first trip since inauguration
Protesters rallying in Seattle as cop in George Floyd’s death faces trial for murder
Researchers looking at spread of Oregon COVID-19 variant
City opens up COVID-19 vaccination appointments to all Seattle residents 65 and older
Preschool, special education students return to Seattle classrooms amid uncertainty

KUOW FM
Pandemic updates for the Northwest
Drug Companies Plan Tax Breaks To Offset $26 Billion Opioid Settlement
New Justice Department Team Comes Into Focus Ahead Of Vote On Garland

NW Public Radio
Wenatchee-Area Hydrogen Production Plant Signals Renewed Interest In Alternative Fuel

Q13 TV (Fox)
Vaccinated seniors at Bothell facility can’t wait to hug their family after CDC loosens restrictions
First Lady Jill Biden visits Joint Base Lewis-McChord near Tacoma

Web

Crosscut
People of color across Cascadia speak up against climate change
Opinion: How the coronavirus changed Washington state’s economy
Federal money to SpaceX may hurt public broadband efforts in WA
Opinion: Jay Inslee’s racial equity agenda must include gun control
WA looking at ranked-choice voting among election reform ideas

Slog
My Dad Is the Tacoma Cop Who Drove Into the Crowd of Racers

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.

Print

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)

Print

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.