Politics Washington Legislature aims to regulate AI — but treads cautiously ‘You don’t want to stop innovation. You don’t want to stop commerce. But you don’t want to stop people’s civil rights.’ by John Stang / January 12, 2024 / Updated 12:30 p.m.
Politics Q&A: Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown on policing, homelessness and budgets Brown chatted with Cascade PBS about her approach to a $50M city deficit, gaining community trust and the 50th anniversary of Expo ’74. by Mai Hoang / April 10, 2024
Politics Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown’s first 100 days: How is she doing? Community members say they value Brown’s openness to feedback, but are still waiting to see how she executes on drug usage, homelessness and budgeting. by Mai Hoang / April 9, 2024 / Updated 11:25 a.m., April 10
Investigations Whatcom County paid $225K to settle sexual harassment complaints Multiple women accused a public works director of inappropriate conduct. Officials helped him get a new job by agreeing not to share the allegations. by Brandon Block / April 19, 2024
Investigations Washington UTC chair who used racial slur asked to resign An investigation found two commissioners allegedly used derogatory language, disregarded harassment complaints and failed to advance equity policies. by Brandon Block / March 15, 2024
News Facing shortages, WA expands police trainings and fronts the bill While the Legislature will fund law enforcement instruction, in recent sessions it failed to allow cities to reroute tax revenue to hire new cops. by John Stang / April 17, 2024
Environment WA farmers brace for summer drought on heels of harvest shortfalls Washington’s agriculture industry has been hit hard by climate change. Growers are working to develop crops that can thrive in shifting landscapes. by Mai Hoang / April 25, 2024
Politics Will WA ever end supermajority law for school construction bonds? Bonds raise taxes for building and maintenance. While the proposal faces hurdles, there is a precedent — school levies needed 60% approval until 2007. by John Stang / February 9, 2024 / Updated: Feb 12, 2024
Investigations WA intercepts millions in child support for low-income families In 2022, the state took over $40 million meant for impoverished children. A bipartisan bill could redirect a portion of future payments to families. by Brandon Block / January 25, 2024
Environment Gas prices too high? WA residents may get $200 back for utilities The Legislature considers offering rebates to middle- and low-income households to offset fuel costs blamed on the new cap-and-invest program. by John Stang / February 22, 2024