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How many times can you spend the state’s revenue growth?
Republicans say 8 percent revenue growth (about $3 billion “extra”) is enough to fund the budget. Is it? First, factor in costs just to keep doing what we are doing...
Surplus or deficit: Which is it?
You don’t need an advanced math degree to understand basic budget principles. Even though our state budget is 487 pages and takes several months to produce, the budget itself is...
Washington has the worst taxes on average earners
A recent report featured on KING5.com reveals that Washington has the worst taxes on average earners. In fact, the article says that “according to ‘Who Pays? A Distributional Analysis of...
Fixing a broken mental health system
Recent high-profile tragedies have shown some gaping holes in our state’s mental health system that need to be addressed. A young man named Joel Reuter, suffering from a mental health...
Continuing Dr. King’s march for equality and opportunity
The House honored Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. earlier this week. More than half a century ago, Dr. King struck the conscious of America with a powerful message: separate is...
Happy Holidays!
The Advance is taking some time off for the holidays as members and staff spend time with their families. We’ll be back after the New Year. We wish you all...
Is home ownership out of reach in Washington state?
Affordable housing is a key issue for lawmakers this year, with numerous bills and programs aimed at the issue every session. Three key costs for every family are housing ,...
KCTS: Frank Chopp the Affordable Housing Crusader
House Speaker Frank Chopp doesn’t like the spotlight, unless it’s pointed at the issues he cares about. Over the years Chopp has accomplished a great deal for his Seattle district...
KIRO investigators: Confusing state law allows violent felons to get guns
After the deadly school shooting in Marysville and the passage of Initiative 594, there’s a renewed look at gun safe legislation, including a proposal from Rep. Ruth Kagi on the...
Workers’ comp rate increase is way below expectations
The Department of Labor and Industries announced last week that workers’ comp premiums in 2015 will increase by less than half of the 1.8 percent proposed back in September. The...