US Attorney General issues ultimatum to Ferguson on sanctuary status
OLYMPIA—In a significant escalation of the federal government’s efforts to enforce immigration laws, United States Attorney General Pam Bondi has notified Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson that the state qualifies as a sanctuary jurisdiction, requiring immediate steps to repeal related policies and affirm compliance with federal statutes, or face potential legal and financial consequences that […]
Gov Ferguson tours site of fuel spill into Indian Creek
PORT ANGELES—On July 18, 2025, a fuel tanker truck accident on Highway 101 near the Elwha River Bridge in Port Angeles, Washington, resulted in an estimated 3,000 gallons of diesel and gasoline spilling into Indian Creek, a tributary of the Elwha River, the city’s primary potable water source. The incident triggered a rapid response from […]
New Dig Law takes effect July 27, increases penalties for pipeline violations
LACEY—Starting July 27, 2025, Washington’s revised dig law (RCW 19.122) will introduce stricter regulations and higher penalties to enhance safe excavation practices and protect underground utilities. The changes, unanimously passed by the state Legislature and signed by Governor Bob Ferguson, aim to prevent pipeline damage and ensure safer digging for utilities, contractors, and homeowners. “These […]
DelBene highlights impact of Trump’s SNAP cuts on Washington families
ARLINGTON—On Thursday, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) addressed the federal food program cuts from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed into law by President Donald J Trump. Joined by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients, nutrition advocates, educators, and local food providers, DelBene stated that the legislation will affect many Washington families and children. The […]
Ferguson announces changes to SNAP benefits due to passage of One Big Beautiful Bill
OLYMPIA—With the passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” today in Congress, Governor Bob Ferguson is advising that the approximately one million Washingtonians who receive the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will see a reduction in benefits. In addition, the state will now be on the hook for an additional $87.8 million in administrative costs […]
Florida company selected to build hybrid-electric ferries for WSF, sparking local job concerns
Washington State has selected Florida-based Eastern Shipbuilding Group to build three new 160-vehicle hybrid-electric ferries for Washington State Ferries (WSF) at a cost of $714.5 million, a decision that prioritizes cost savings but has raised concerns about bypassing local shipbuilders and its impact on Washington’s economy. “After careful consideration and conversations with legislative leaders, I […]
A victim of Gov Ferguson’s veto: Kent’s PICC center for babies exposed to drugs
On Wednesday, June 25, I toured the Pediatric Interim Care Center (PICC) in Kent. There was no media, no speeches — just a bipartisan group walking through a place that has dedicated 35 years to quietly saving lives. It may have been a final visit. Unless something changes by Monday, June 30, PICC will close […]
Brittany Gregory takes helm as new Director of state’s Women’s Commission, talks on threats to women
OLYMPIA—Brittany Gregory has been appointed as the new executive director of the Washington State Women’s Commission following a statewide search conducted by the Office of Governor Bob Ferguson. Gregory steps into the role at a time when women across the state face increasing challenges, including federal policies and budget cuts that impact essential services. “I […]
Governor Ferguson appoints Ryan Moran as Health Care Authority Director
OLYMPIA—Governor Bob Ferguson appointed Ryan Moran director of the Washington State Health Care Authority, effective August 18. Moran currently serves as Deputy Secretary for Health Care Financing and Medicaid Director for the Maryland Department of Health. “Ryan’s passion and experience make him a great choice to lead the Health Care Authority,” Ferguson said. “His expertise […]
US Supreme Court upholds law banning gender-affirming care for trans youth
The United States Supreme Court, on June 18, affirmed the Sixth Circuit’s ruling upholding Tennessee’s Senate Bill 1 (SB1) that prohibited healthcare providers, within the state, from administering puberty blockers or hormones to minors for the purpose of treating gender dysphoria, gender identity disorder, or gender incongruence, while allowing such treatments for other medical conditions. […]
