Nearly 200 cops with credibility issues still working in Washington state
A Crosscut investigation found at least 183 police officers flagged for issues such as dishonesty, bias and excessive force remain in law enforcement.
Author: Crosscut.
WA looks to end driver’s license suspensions over unpaid debt
Lawmakers say connecting unpaid tickets to license suspensions amounts to punishing the poor.
WA school districts depending on federal relief to pay for reopening
While some school districts in the state haven’t figured out how they will spend federal dollars, others are using the money to hire more teachers.
Amazon tells Gov. Inslee it supports a clean fuel standard in WA
The tech giant says it fully supports the contentious measure. Could this tip the scales in the Legislature?
Federal money to SpaceX may hurt public broadband efforts in WA
Critics say money went to untested and unproven technology. Meanwhile, public agencies say it now will be harder for them to access broadband funding.
Washington’s plastic bag ban on hold during COVID-19
The state Legislature passed the ban on single-use plastic bags with bipartisan support in 2020, but the pandemic has delayed its implementation.
Unemployment disrupts education for low-income WA college students
Students who depend on part-time jobs to help pay tuition and other expenses are making difficult choices during the COVID-related economic downturn.
Teens pushing WA Legislature to ban retail puppy sales
Bellevue teens who love dogs take their advocacy work to Olympia to propose a bill and see it through.
Uber, Lyft would need to cut emissions under WA state plan
Some studies have found the ride-hailing services increase vehicle miles driven and pollution.
Washingtonians weigh in on Biden’s immigration agenda
DACA, the banning of private prisons and changes to ICE enforcement are among the issues that could have a big impact in the state.
How to follow and participate in the Washington state Legislature
With the pandemic forcing lawmakers to meet remotely, it’s never been easier to make your voice heard right from home.
Growing pot at home could become legal in Washington state
Other states that have legalized recreational cannabis already allow home growing, but Washington does not.
Washington state unveils $2.2 billion COVID relief plan
State lawmakers want to help struggling renters, small businesses and other people find a way back from the pandemic-induced economic downturn.
What’s next for the two WA Republicans who voted to impeach Trump?
Observers say the votes to impeach from U.S. Reps. Jaime Herrera Beutler and Dan Newhouse signal a ‘civil war’ playing out within the GOP nationwide.
Washington state braces for potential violence on Inauguration Day
The National Guard and State Patrol are ready to protect the Capitol, but most of the excitement will likely be in the other Washington.
Companies often want consultants' help with diversity — for free
Consultants of color who specialize in remaking corporate cultures say their work is routinely undervalued, even as demand for it grows.
Disproportionately hit by COVID-19, WA Latinos brace for vaccine
Public health experts are racing to prepare communities for the vaccine, but they face notable hurdles.
Some WA legislators come to the Capitol armed with guns
It’s legal for state lawmakers to carry firearms while voting on bills and conducting the people’s business.
WA Legislature to start 2021 session with heightened security
COVID-19, tax reform and police accountability top lawmakers’ agenda, but the threat of armed protesters hangs over their work.
Only 55% of WA voters say they want to be vaccinated, poll says
A new Crosscut/Elway poll found vaccination interest in the state is much lower than needed for herd immunity under federal guidelines.
How to avoid cabin fever in WA’s pandemic winter
With mental health on the line, Washingtonians are finding creative, safe ways to get outside.
Symptoms and struggles persist for WA couple, 10 months after COVID
As one of the earliest infections in the country, the Malpass family still faces the unknown impacts of the coronavirus.
Black-owned pot shops are rare in WA. Can a task force fix that?
A plan to bring social equity to the state's mostly white marijuana industry was delayed by COVID-19. Now, things are inching forward.
WA unemployment problems persist, with some going unpaid for months
Nine months into the pandemic, the state’s unemployment system is still rife with issues, and thousands are stuck in limbo.
