Environment PFAS in Washington’s well water could make you sick ‘Forever chemicals’ linked to ailments from high cholesterol to cancer are in our clearest aquifers — but steep costs pose cleanup challenges. by Andrew Engelson / February 14, 2024
News Puget Sound transit and riders navigate post-pandemic commutes With more people working in-office, local agencies try to make light-rail and bus services more consistent. But they face staff shortages and delays. by Andrew Engelson / March 22, 2024
Politics National culture wars on race, LGBTQ+ rights come to WA schools Right-wing pushback on school policies and curricula are leading to educator burnout — and fear of personal harm. by Joseph O'Sullivan / September 27, 2023
Politics Bellingham voters consider minimum-wage hike, tenant protections Proponents of the initiatives — one similar to a recent Tacoma campaign — say rising housing costs are spurring the policy efforts. by Joseph O'Sullivan / October 23, 2023
Politics Tacoma to consider new tenant rights measure on Nov. 7 ballot The debate over renter protections in Washington’s third-largest city could foreshadow broader statewide action. by Joseph O'Sullivan / September 29, 2023
Politics Can Washington bridge its political divide? Some want to try Already dreading the 2024 election atmosphere, a bipartisan group of community leaders and politicians are working to “disagree better.” by Joseph O'Sullivan / December 7, 2023
Politics $70.9B WA budget proposal boosts funding for behavioral health Washington lawmakers will offer their own proposals in the legislative session that begins next month. by Joseph O'Sullivan / December 13, 2023 / Updated at 4 p.m. on Dec. 13
News WA’s new drug law could help needle exchanges — or restrict them The possession bill passed this year includes $63M for treatment centers. But it also gives local governments the power to regulate them. by Andrew Engelson / November 2, 2023 / Updated at 5 p.m. on Nov. 7
Politics New mothers can stay with their babies at this Washington prison The state’s prison nursery is one of only a few in the country intended to support incarcerated mothers amid a simmering debate on crime and drug use. by Joseph O'Sullivan / November 8, 2023
Politics Bellingham minimum wage, Seattle housing measures likely to pass As votes are still being counted, the two initiatives appear to clear while Tacoma’s rental protections proposal is too close to call. by Joseph O'Sullivan / November 9, 2023