Washington Legislature

The ongoing tiff over TIF

Tax-increment financing, which is permitted in 48 other states, would be a powerful tool for encouraging more projects and amenities around light rail stations. Here's the case for its many benefits, and a look at progress and debate to date.

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The latest from news outlets and blogs around the Northwest and beyond, chosen by Crosscut editors.

2 Northwest Washington seats are key to state Senate control

Republicans are pinning their hopes on beating two veteran Democrats, Mary Margaret Haugen and Rosemary McAuliffe. Democrats say the GOP is engaged in wishful thinking.

HERALD (EVERETT)

Whooping cough: budget cuts fuel the epidemic

Low vaccination rates (the state once had the most liberal opt-out provisions nationally), changes in the vaccine itself, and years of budget cuts to state health departments all have contributed to Washington state's health problem.

NEW YORK TIMES

Sen. Majority leader Lisa Brown decides to retire

The Seattlepi.com reports, "Washington State Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown will not seek reelection from her Spokane district, ending a 20-year career in the State Legislature."  

SEATTLEPI.COM

Will new law stop exploitation of minors through Backpage.com?
Washington's state has passed a law that relies on identification checks to block the placing of ads offering underage girls for prostitution. But, in the attempt to achieve an important goal, the law raises tough legal issues.

SALON

Olympia impasse may be breaking
The News Tribune reports, "House Democrats are putting their newly modified budget plan out for the public to see Wednesday morning. They also scheduled hearings on bills that Majority Leader Pat Sullivan says are signs that Democrats have 'moved' toward compromise with Senate Republicans, who want to see reforms that trim the long-term cost of government."

NEWS TRIBUNE (TACOMA)

Why ending tax exemptions is tough sledding in Olympia
One problem is I-1053, with its stiff requirements for raising taxes. With Republicans unwilling to give votes to ending exemptions, you can't get the two-thirds vote needed, so Democrats don't want to take tough votes that yield no change.

NEWS TRIBUNE (TACOMA)
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