State Superintendent supports ending the sale of flavored tobacco products in Washington
OLYMPIA—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal announced on Monday his support of state legislation that would end the sale of all flavored tobacco products in Washington. Reykdal is the most prominent elected official thus far to announce support for the effort that will be introduced during the 2025 legislative session, which begins in January. […]
Senate Democrats set new leadership, committee membership of 2025 session
OLYMPIA—The Senate Democratic Caucus voted Thursday, November 21, to confirm committee leadership and membership positions for the 2025 legislative session. The 2025 session will bring eight new members to the Senate Democratic Caucus. Seven senators decided to retire or run for another office following the 2024 legislative session, and Democrats added a 30th member — […]
Washington State Black Legislators endorse Kamala Harris for President
OLYMPIA—Members of the Washington State Legislative Black Caucus (LBC) are proud to announce their enthusiastic endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris for President of the United States. As a group of dedicated public servants committed to advancing justice, equality, and opportunity for all, we believe Vice President Harris embodies the leadership, vision, and determination needed […]
Farm Bureau endorses Van De Wege for lands commissioner
Senator Kevin Van De Wege (D-Lake Sutherland) has received the Washington State Farm Bureau’s endorsement for state lands commissioner. Van De Wege’s selection from among numerous candidates is based on his knowledge of the state’s multifaceted natural resources and his longtime efforts in support of farm and ranch families, Farm Bureau officials said. Van De […]
Federal judge strikes down California’s assault rifle ban, what this could mean for Washington?
WASHINGTON D.C., October 24, 2023—U.S. District Court Judge Roger Benitez struck down California’s assault rifle ban October 19 which prohibits the sale, transfer, manufacturing, and possession of specific semi-automatic weapons, writing the ban was unconstitutional, “extreme”, and had “no historical pedigree.” “Like the Bowie Knife which was commonly carried by citizens and soldiers in the […]
What you should know: New laws that go into effect on July 23
OLYMPIA, Wash., July 23, 2023—Bills signed into law take effect 90 days after the end of the session in which they were passed. From a controversial parental rights exemption to an anti-hazing law to promoting water safety, below are some new laws going into effect as of July 23, 2023. SB-5599: Supporting youth and young […]
Assault weapons ban passes Senate, heads back to House for vote
OLYMPIA, Wash., April 9, 2023—The Senate passed sweeping legislation on Saturday afternoon, April 8, classifying 61 firearms as “assault weapons” to be banned within Washington state. The bill now heads back to the House for a vote on three Senate-proposed amendments, before it is sent to Governor Jay Inslee to be signed into law. House […]
Advocates press for highly capable program testing for all students
ARTICLE UPDATE [3-22-23 @ 2:55 pm]: SSB 5072 that will expand the highly capable program, passed the House on March 22, 2023, with 97; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 1. The Bill heads to the Governor Inslee for signature. OLYMPIA, Wash., February 20, 2023—School districts should be required to test all students to see if […]
College Bound Scholarship may soon get a boost
Help for low-income students passes Senate At least 10,000 more students eligible with current changes By Joseph Claypoole | Washington State Journal Olympia, Wash., March 4, 2021 – The College Bound Scholarship for Washington students is being reworked to reach more students across the state. Currently, students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunches during […]
