long-term care

With his signature, Inslee pauses WA Cares program for 18 months

Austin Jenkins

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee on Thursday signed into law a bill that delays the start of a controversial long-term care benefit program known as WA Cares for 18 months. A second measure signed by Inslee will allow certain workers to opt out of the first-in-the-nation program.

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and Democratic leaders in the state Legislature have announced a delay in the collection of a new payroll tax, set to kick-in on January 1, to fund a new long-term care benefit program called WA Cares. The delay will allow lawmakers time to make changes to the program to address concerns about workers who are required to pay the premium, but won't qualify for the benefit.

Inslee orders delay in collection of new long-term care tax from workers

Austin Jenkins

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and Democratic leaders in the Legislature announced Friday a delay in the collection of a payroll tax to pay for a new long-term care insurance program in Washington.

Government and Politics

WA voters said 'no.' Now there’s a $15 billion problem

In an election year with big races on the ballot, including president and governor, Washington voters – and the media -- might have been forgiven for not…