Rent Stabilization Backers Aim to Beat Deadline to Keep Bill Alive
Time is running out to pass rent stabilization in the state house or miss a key bill cutoff, putting off rent relief for another year. Supporters are rallying support in a last ditch effort.
State House Passes Bill Allowing Even-Year Local Elections
The Washington State House passed a bill allowing cities to move their elections to even years, when turnout is much higher. The bill still needs to pass the state senate to become law.
Legislature Advances Proposal Allowing Cafes in More Neighborhoods
Washington State could see more small neighborhood cafes opening up within short walking distances of homes, under a proposal advancing at the state legislature....
Micro-apartments Could Become Fully Legal in Washington, Again
The Washington State Legislature is considering legalizing "co-living housing" in cities and towns across Washington, which could open the door to new micro-apartments offered...
‘Housing Accountability Act’ Seeks to Push Local Governments to Boost Homebuilding
The bill could result in a builder's remedy to force resistant jurisdictions to allow apartment construction.
Representative Jessica Bateman (D-22, Olympia) has filed a brand...
Op-Ed: State Must Pass Transit-Oriented Housing Rules Prioritizing Equity, Affordability
In 2023 the stakes are the highest they have ever been. Wildfires and sea level rise have put the climate crisis in stark context....
State Legislators Push for ‘Year of Housing 2.0’
While 2023 was dubbed the 'year of housing,' 2024 could be a second act, with unfinished business left to tackle.
In 2023, the Washington State...
The Urbanist Podcast: An Oral History of Passing the Missing Middle Housing Bill
In this year’s legislative session, the Washington State Legislature passed extensive housing reform. House Bill 1110 compelled many cities in Washington to open up...