speaker laurie jinkins

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

A special session of the Washington Legislature in June? Don’t bet on it, but don’t rule it out

Austin Jenkins

As Washington Gov. Jay Inslee exerts his emergency powers to battle COVID-19, behind the scenes legislative leaders are exploring the idea of a special…

Government and Politics

Ban on 'assault weapons' appears unlikely this year in WA Legislature

Austin Jenkins

Despite a push by Gov. Jay Inslee and Attorney General Bob Ferguson, a ban on so-called “assault weapons” appears unlikely to pass the Washington…

Government and Politics

Back at Capitol, Rep. Matt Shea defiant in face of allegations, sanctions

Austin Jenkins

Accused in a House investigation of participating in an act of domestic terrorism, Washington state Rep. Matt Shea of Spokane Valley defiantly returned to…

Government and Politics

Guns, homelessness and possible expulsion vote loom as Washington Legislature convenes

Austin Jenkins

When Washington lawmakers convene a short, election year session on Monday, they’ll confront a range of issues from homelessness to gun control to whether…