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
Investigations WA health officials throw away millions of pandemic supplies Masks, gowns, gloves and more: States are culling their expired stockpiles, but medical experts say the waste shows a system unprepared for disasters. by Brandon Block / February 23, 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
Investigations WA spent $500M to help small, minority businesses. Did it work? A Crosscut analysis of Working Washington grants found mixed results on equity initiatives and millions for large chains or franchises. by Brandon Block / October 18, 2023 / Updated at 6 p.m. on Oct. 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
Investigations Q&A: WA’s broadband director on the $1.2B expansion challenge ahead As Mark Vasconi prepares to retire, he outlines how the state can invest historic federal aid in connecting rural communities left out of past efforts. by Brandon Block / December 14, 2023
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