Washington State Legislature

Government

Should rent be stabilized? Washington lawmakers hear the pros and cons

Supporters say the bills would guard against massive rent increases. Critics say the measures would suppress the production of new rentals at a time when the state is already hurting for housing.

Health

WA lawmakers consider options to make drivers ed more equitable

Today, 16- and 17-year-olds in Washington are mostly turning to private driver’s ed companies for traffic safety courses. Up until the year 2000, nearly every school district in the state offered a driver’s ed course. But those largely faded away after the Washington legislature cut funding in 2002. And now, lawmakers are trying to confront the ramifications of that decision.

Government

Ban foreign entities from buying Washington forest and farmland, lawmaker urges

Legislators in Washington are joining more than a dozen other states that are considering whether to restrict or ban foreign entities from buying farmland. The initial hearing on Olympia's version of the foreign ownership restrictions however drew more criticism than support on Tuesday.

Government

Resale market for cannabis waste? WA lawmakers consider it

Washington lawmakers are considering a brand-new type of cannabis market: resale of the plant waste.

Environment

Washington state has a new carbon credit market. What does that mean?

In the face of climate change, some state governments are turning to an old standby: market-based solutions to try to lower carbon emissions. With the first carbon credit auction set to take place in Washington, how will the state balance industry with conservation?

Education

Grade schoolers would get 45 minutes of recess under bill in Olympia

Recess would be mandatory at public schools in Washington under a bill before the state Legislature. Senate Bill 5457 would require that elementary students receive at least 45 minutes of play time per day, far more than many elementary students currently receive.

Government

Northwest lawmakers, courts weigh new rules on gun sales

New restrictions on gun sales, including training requirements, waiting periods and permits, are making their way through the legislature in Washington and courts in Oregon.

Legalizing jaywalking to reduce enforcement inequities considered at Washington statehouse

Racial and social justice advocates asked Washington legislators Wednesday to repeal laws against jaywalking. However, a bill to do that generated lots of skeptical questions during a state House committee hearing and its prospects are unclear.

Middle housing bill passes major milestone in Olympia

Lawmakers advanced a “middle housing” bill out of a key committee this week. It would basically eliminate single family zones, so that people can build duplexes, fourplexes and townhomes instead.