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Washington State Legislature

Frame holds a microphone on the floor of senate chambers.

Op-Ed: Wealth Tax on Megarich Would Invest in Washington State’s Future

Despite Governor Ferguson’s hemming and hawing, state lawmakers are advancing a wealth tax that could raise $3 billion annually to fully fund public schools and avert a budget crisis. Passing it would ensure Washington State Democrats are living their values amidst Trump’s assault on public services.
Passengers deboarding an Amtrak train at Portland's Union Station.

State Lawmakers Chart Path to Double Amtrak Cascades Service

State lawmakers are signaling intent to improve Amtrak Cascades service with legislation setting a goal of cutting the trip time from Seattle to Portland to 2.5 hours and boosting service to 14 daily trips with 88% on-time performance by 2035. If lawmakers pass the bill, the goal for trip time service north to Vancouver would be 2.75 hours.
Cars use Interstate 5 through Seattle on a sunny day, with the sun just breaking through the city skyline

Facing Budget Crisis, Washington’s Leaders Downplay Focus on Highway Expansion

As other states start to reassess their prioritization of expanding highway capacity in the face of ambitious climate goals and other transportation needs, Washington is still in denial mode.
Ferguson stands at the lectern wearing a navy suit and glasses in a Capitol board room.

Ferguson Pushes Budget Cuts as Washington Legislature Seeks New Revenue

With the baton passing from Jay Inslee to Bob Ferguson, Washington’s governor has placed more emphasis on fiscal austerity to solve the state's looming budget deficit. But some lawmakers are intent on raising new revenue to avoid deep cuts to social programs.
A sign in front of an apartment building advertising "Affordable Micro Studios" with utilities and wifi included

Rent Stabilization Tops Washington Democrats’ Housing Agenda for 2025 Session

Democratic leaders are saying this is the year that the Washington State Legislature will finally pass rent stabilization, with momentum building behind Rep. Emily Alvarado's bill.
A sign on an apartment building indicating the parking entrance

Bateman Takes Aim at Washington’s Parking Mandates

A new bill introduced at the state legislature by longtime housing advocate Jessica Bateman would represent a sea change, limiting the ability of cities and counties to mandate high amounts of parking.
A small neighborhood cafe commercial storefront with people sitting outside in patio chairs

Statewide Neighborhood Cafe Bill Returns, Expanded to More Types of Businesses

A popular bill from 2024 that would legalize neighborhood cafes in residential areas across Washington is back in 2025. It will likely continue to face headwinds from local governments.
The domed Olympia Capitol Building stands in the distance with a bus stop with a passenger waiting in the foreground. A dogwalker also mosey on the lawn.

Op-Ed: Washington State’s Path to Tax The Rich in 2025

With a state budget deficit looming, Democrats may consider a JumpStart-like corporate payroll tax or other new revenue, to lessen the need for deep cuts.