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Articles by Albert James
Washington’s work zone speed camera program continues rollout Original
Speed cameras aim to curb work zone accidents Washington's new speed camera program, launched in April, has issued over 2,600 infractions in its initial months, aiming to enhance safety in these dangerous areas. DUPONT, Wash. - Less than two months after launching, transportation officials are liking what they are seeing so far when it comes to the state’s "Work Zone Speed Camera Program." Though some confusion exists among drivers through one work zone about the initiative.
WA leaders raise LGBTQ+ Pride flag at capitol, call for action
OLYMPIA, Wash. - As dozens gathered to raise an LGBTQ+ pride flag at the state capitol Wednesday afternoon, leaders and community members said celebrations need to be matched with action in light of continued challenges. Members of the Washington State LGBTQ Commission were joined by Gov. Bob Ferguson, state supreme court justices and other community members in the annual flag raising.
WA leaders raise LGBTQ+ Pride flag at capitol, call for action
The Brief At the LGBTQ+ pride flag raising at the Washington state capitol, leaders emphasized the need for continued action alongside celebrations due to ongoing challenges. Speakers highlighted progress in LGBTQ+ protections and representation but stressed the importance of addressing remaining issues, particularly for queer and transgender youth.
WA leaders raise LGBTQ+ Pride flag at capitol, call for action
As dozens gathered to raise an LGBTQ+ pride flag at the state capitol Wednesday afternoon, leaders and community members said celebrations need to be matched with action in light of continued challenges. Members of the Washington State LGBTQ Commission were joined by Gov. Bob Ferguson, state supreme court justices and other community members in the annual flag raising.
Mandatory driver’s education to expand under new Washington law Original
Young drivers will eventually have to get more traffic safety education under legislation signed into law this month. House Bill 1878, which got Gov. Ferguson’s approval on May 17, annually expands mandatory driver’s education to drivers up to 21-years-old by 2030, starting with 18-year-olds in 2027. Right now, only 16 and 17-year-olds have to take driver’s ed before getting their first license. The bill also requires safe driving courses for young drivers who accumulate traffic tickets.
Washington leaders warn of ‘dire’ impacts from ‘cruel’ Medicaid cuts
The Brief Washington leaders warn that proposed federal Medicaid cuts could harm healthcare access, affecting nearly 200,000 residents and straining hospitals. Cuts may lead to overwhelmed emergency rooms and reduced care options, especially in rural areas, impacting entire communities. Personal stories highlight Medicaid's vital role, urging awareness and advocacy against the cuts.
Washington leaders warn of ‘dire’ impacts from ‘cruel’ Medicaid cuts
As federal lawmakers push ahead on cuts to Medicaid, leaders here at home are sounding the alarm about the harm it could do on healthcare, going beyond people on the joint federal and state program. "Our state will change in fundamental ways if this goes forward," Gov. Bob Ferguson told reporters at Harborview Medical Center on Thursday.
Gov. Ferguson signs WA state budget with billions in tax increases into law Original
Gov. Ferguson signs state budget with billions in tax increases into law Almost a month after the 2025 legislative session adjourned, Gov. Ferguson signed lawmakers’ two-year operating budget into law, capping a months-long process to close a multi-billion dollar funding gap. OLYMPIA, Wash. - Almost a month after the 2025 legislative session adjourned, Gov. Ferguson signed lawmakers’ two-year operating budget into law, capping a months-long process to close a multi-billion dollar funding gap.
WA Gov. signs law requiring speed limiting devices for habitual speeders Original
Washington is going full speed ahead in stopping habitual speeders, as the governor signed a bill into law Monday to require speed limiting devices for drivers with a history of excessive speeding. "What’s behind this bill is, of course, a really simple goal, which is to save lives," said Governor Bob Ferguson before he signed House Bill 1596 into law.
Governor signs rent stabilization bill into law, prompting praise and concern
SEATTLE, Wash. – Governor Ferguson signed a slate of bills around housing Wednesday afternoon, including the contentious cap on rent increases that passed on the last day of this year’s legislative session. Visiting the Blake House affordable housing development, Ferguson signed ten bills to boost housing supply and accessibility, including ones to expand property tax relief for disabled veterans and relax parking space requirements for new construction.
Governor signs rent stabilization bill into law, prompting praise and concern Original
Governor Ferguson signed a slate of bills around housing Wednesday afternoon, including the contentious cap on rent increases that passed on the last day of this year’s legislative session. Visiting the Blake House affordable housing development, Ferguson signed ten bills to boost housing supply and accessibility, including ones to expand property tax relief for disabled veterans and relax parking space requirements for new construction.
Governor Ferguson signs bill into law requiring clergy members to report abuse
OLYMPIA, Wash. – Priests, rabbis and other religious leaders will soon become mandatory reporters of child abuse under legislation signed into law by the governor Friday morning. Going into effect on July 26, Senate Bill 5375 will require members of the clergy to tell police if they suspect any harm has been done to a child – much like doctors, teachers and other professions.
Governor Ferguson signs bill into law requiring clergy members to report abuse Original
Priests, rabbis and other religious leaders will soon become mandatory reporters of child abuse under legislation signed into law by the governor on Friday morning. Going into effect on July 26, Senate Bill 5375 will require members of the clergy to tell police if they suspect any harm has been done to a child – much like doctors, teachers and other professions.
Governor Ferguson signs bill into law requiring clergy members to report abuse
The Brief The signing comes after a years-long debate between people who say the law is needed to better protect children, and those fearful the move could infringe on people’s religious freedoms. OLYMPIA, Wash. - Priests, rabbis and other religious leaders will soon become mandatory reporters of child abuse under legislation signed into law by the governor on Friday morning.
What’s still outstanding as the Washington legislature wraps up
OLYMPIA, Wash. – It is make or break time for legislators, as Saturday and Sunday mark the final days for the 2025 regular session and several issues remain outstanding. The main issue is the two-year operating budget, including the revenue bills that will fund all that spending. House and Senate Democrats settled their differences on the spending details, with the final balanced budget proposal expected to be released Saturday morning with votes throughout the weekend.
Washington legislature ends 2025 legislative session by passing operating budget and other final legislation
OLYMPIA, Wash. – The 2025 legislative session adjourned Sunday night, capping 105 days of work on issues like housing, health care and most important of all – the state budget. Before lawmakers left town, they spent their final day settling a few outstanding issues – including the hotly-debated legislation capping annual rent increases to the lesser of 10% or 7% plus inflation.
Washington legislature ends 2025 legislative session by passing operating budget and other final legislation Original
The 2025 legislative session adjourned Sunday night, capping 105 days of work on issues like housing, health care and most important of all – the state budget. What we know: Before lawmakers left town, they spent their final day settling a few outstanding issues – including the hotly-debated legislation capping annual rent increases to the lesser of 10% or 7% plus inflation.
WA lawmakers' final day of 2025 legislative session
It's the final countdown for lawmakers in Olympia as today is the 105th and final day of the 2025 legislative session. Big picture view: Legislators are spending their last day addressing some of the most pressing and contentious issues of the session. The largest of which is the two-year operating budget that has been top of mind the past few months, with billions in spending cuts and increased taxes.
WA lawmakers' final day of 2025 legislative session
WA lawmakers' final day of 2025 legislative session Lawmakers in Olympia are racing to finalize the 2025 legislative session, focusing on a $77.9 billion budget and a bill to cap annual rent increases. With the House's approval, the budget now faces Senate debate, while the rent cap heads to the governor's desk. OLYMPIA, Wash. - It's the final countdown for lawmakers in Olympia as today is the 105th and final day of the 2025 legislative session.
Final $77.9 billion WA state budget released, vote set for Sunday Original
With just over 24 hours before the 2025 legislative session has to adjourn, lawmakers in Olympia have released their final budget proposal for the next two years. "It’s probably not the budget that we thought we were gonna be writing a year ago," said Senator June Robinson. After weeks of ironing out differences between the House and the Senate, a conference committee has come out with a $77.9 billion balanced budget for the next two years.
What’s still outstanding as the WA Legislature wraps up this weekend
What to expect as 2025 WA legislative session nears end Washington lawmakers are heading into the weekend trying to put the final touches on the state's budget for the next two years. April 25 marks the 103rd day of the 2025 session. OLYMPIA, Wash. - It is make-or-break time for legislators, as Saturday and Sunday mark the final days for the 2025 regular session and several issues remain outstanding.
What’s still outstanding as the WA Legislature wraps up this weekend
The Brief Legislators aim to finalize the 2025 budget and related tax bills by Sunday, with Governor Ferguson optimistic about reaching a balanced budget. Capital and transportation budgets, including a gas tax increase, await final approval. A compromise on rent caps was reached, but faces Republican opposition over potential impacts on housing supply. OLYMPIA, Wash.
State budget expected Saturday as WA legislative session enters final days Original
Lawmakers have reached a deal for a two-year operating budget, though crucial elements of the proposal are still being worked out in these final days of the legislative session. "We’re pretty much coming to the end of the budget process," said Sen. Derek Stanford, D-Bothell. What they're saying: The Senate Ways and Means vice chair said the final budget will be released on Saturday, with votes to follow throughout the weekend.
Washington lawmakers face budget deadline as negotiations continue
OLYMPIA, Wash. – The Washington state legislature is working against the clock to pass budgets for the next two years by Sunday. Democrats are reportedly finalizing negotiations on an operating budget, though no specifics have been disclosed yet, according to a report from the Washington State Standard. Lawmakers are also focused on completing the transportation and capital budgets.
Washington lawmakers face budget deadline as negotiations continue
OLYMPIA, Wash. – The Washington state legislature is working against the clock to pass budgets for the next two years by Sunday. Democrats are reportedly finalizing negotiations on an operating budget, though no specifics have been disclosed yet, according to a report from the Washington State Standard. Lawmakers are also focused on completing the transportation and capital budgets.
WA lawmakers weigh new license plates, rules as session wanes Original
Specialty license plates are getting renewed attention as the legislature races toward its Sunday deadline. As they work on a balanced budget, lawmakers are looking at introducing new plates and changing the process around them – honoring a colleague in the process. Every year, legislators consider creating a handful of new special design license plates, with plates around J.P. Patches, state wineries and the San Juan Islands being introduced in recent years.
WA legislators work on tax proposals with days left before session ends Original
Lawmakers continue to take big steps toward passing a tax package to close a multi-billion-dollar deficit, but one tax increase appears to be off the table. On Saturday, the Senate passed a handful of revenue proposals, including an increase to capital gains and estate taxes, removing certain tax preferences, and extending the sales tax to computer-related services and other areas previously exempt. The trio of bills are slated for a vote out of a House committee Tuesday morning.
Washington Senate passes bill to require speed limiting devices for habitual speeders
The state Senate passed a bill Tuesday attempting to stop habitual speeders in their tracks. Passed on a 40-8 vote, House Bill 1596 would require certain drivers to install an “intelligent speed assistance” device that limits their car to the posted speed limit of the area they are in. Drivers with the device would be allowed to exceed the speed limit up to three times a month.
WA lawmakers react to governor calling latest tax proposal ‘too risky’ Original
OLYMPIA, Wash. - As lawmakers have a little over a week to pass a balanced budget, Governor Ferguson is once again raising objections to new taxes proposed by Democrats in charge of the legislature.
WA legislators debate over police hiring grant as session nears close
Legislators on Wednesday took a step toward meeting one of the governor’s top priorities, but the step may not be big enough. Immediately after being sworn in earlier this year, Gov. Bob Ferguson made it clear he wanted to get $100 million for a police hiring grant program. "That idea was a cornerstone of my campaign for governor," he said in his inaugural address on January 15.
WA legislators debate over police hiring grant as session nears close
The Brief The Washington Senate passed House Bill 2015 to support police hiring and public safety, but Gov. Bob Ferguson demands $100 million in funding, threatening to veto a budget that falls short. The bill proposes a 0.1% sales tax for public safety initiatives, leading to mixed reactions in a 30-19 vote due to concerns over affordability. OLYMPIA, Wash. - Legislators on Wednesday took a step toward meeting one of the governor’s top priorities, but the step may not be big enough.
WA Democrats propose new taxes to balance budget as legislative session nears finish line Original
Legislative Democrats in Washington state have released a new set of tax proposals as they race to pass a balanced budget by the end of the month. Democratic lawmakers in charge of both the House and Senate unveiled new revenue options back in March to close a projected multi-billion-dollar shortfall. But they had to make some reconsiderations after Governor Bob Ferguson criticized the proposals as having "far too much in taxes" and precariously relying on a wealth tax.
WA Senate passes bill on speed limiting devices for habitual speeders
The Brief The state Senate passed House Bill 1596, requiring habitual speeders to use devices limiting their cars to posted speed limits to reduce fatal crashes. Named "The BEAM Act" in honor of crash victims, the bill aims to change driver behavior and improve public safety. Despite some opposition, the bill returns to the House for amendments before heading to the governor, who supports it. OLYMPIA, Wash.
Washington Senate makes major changes to rent cap bill, setting up debate with House
OLYMPIA, Wash. – A showdown between both chambers of the legislature is set, as the Senate made major changes to legislation passed by the House to put a limit on rent increases. After a lengthy debate Thursday evening, the Senate amended and passed House Bill 1217 on a 29-20 vote, with one Democratic senator joining all Republicans in opposition. The hotly debated legislation left the House back in March with a 7% cap on rent increases.
Washington Senate makes major changes to rent cap bill, setting up debate with House
OLYMPIA, Wash. – A showdown between both chambers of the legislature is set, as the Senate made major changes to legislation passed by the House to put a limit on rent increases. After a lengthy debate Thursday evening, the Senate amended and passed House Bill 1217 on a 29-20 vote, with one Democratic senator joining all Republicans in opposition. The hotly debated legislation left the House back in March with a 7% cap on rent increases.
Washington rent cap bill goes back to House with changes, sparking debate among lawmakers Original
OLYMPIA, Wash. – Lawmakers in Olympia are preparing for a showdown as the House revisits a rent control bill after significant amendments by the Senate. The Senate passed House Bill 12-17 on Thursday evening with changes that have sparked debate. Initially, the bill proposed a seven-percent cap on rent increases. However, the Senate increased this cap to ten percent plus inflation.
WA Senate makes major changes to rent cap bill, setting up debate with House Original
A showdown between both chambers of the legislature is set, as the Senate made major changes to legislation passed by the House to put a limit on rent increases. After a lengthy debate Thursday evening, the Senate amended and passed House Bill 1217 on a 29-20 vote, with one Democratic senator joining all Republicans in opposition. The hotly debated legislation left the House back in March with a 7% cap on rent increases.
Washington legislature passes restrictions on out-of-state military forces
The state legislature approved limitations on out-of-state national guard troops Thursday, accomplishing a priority laid out by the governor at the beginning of his term. Under House Bill 1321, no "armed military force from another state, territory, or district" can enter Washington and perform military duties without the governor’s permission. Though the restriction does not apply if the force has been ordered into active service by the president. Prime sponsor Rep.
Washington legislature passes restrictions on out-of-state military forces
The Brief The state Senate voted Thursday to pass a bill to require outside National Guard troops to get permission from the governor before entering Washington, unless called into service by the president. Governor Ferguson previously highlighted the restriction as a priority. OLYMPIA, Wash. - The state legislature approved limitations on out-of-state national guard troops Thursday, accomplishing a priority laid out by the governor at the beginning of his term.
Washington lawmakers debate raising property taxes to bring in more money
As lawmakers continue to craft a balanced two-year budget before the 2025 legislative session wraps up at the end of the month, part of those negotiations has revolved around increasing property tax revenues. "This is the wrong answer for Washington, it’s the wrong answer for homeowners, it’s the wrong answer for renters," Senate Minority Leader John Braun, R-Centralia, told reporters at a press event around property tax proposals Wednesday.
Washington lawmakers debate raising property taxes to bring in more money
The Brief Lawmakers are negotiating a balanced budget, and Democrats are looking to increase property taxes by removing the 1% revenue growth limit. Senate Bill 5798 aims to adjust property tax revenue growth based on inflation and population changes, with exemptions for seniors and people with disabilities, while House Democrats propose a 3% cap without exemptions.
WA Senate passes bill to exclude juvenile facilities from prison riot laws
The Washington State Senate passed a bill Tuesday morning that excludes juvenile facilities from laws around punishments for prison riots. Supporters argue the change is necessary to correct unfair standards, while opponents say the bill threatens safety for kids and staff at already dangerous facilities. Passed on a 27-21 vote, House Bill 1815 excludes juvenile detention facilities operated by counties or the Department of Children Youth and Families from laws around prison riots.
WA Senate passes bill to exclude juvenile facilities from prison riot laws
The Brief The Washington State Senate passed a bill Tuesday morning that excludes juvenile facilities from laws around punishments for prison riots. Supporters of the bill argue current standards around prison riots are unfairly applied to inmates at juvenile facilities, while opponents say it will only enhance dangerous environments. OLYMPIA, Wash. - The Washington State Senate passed a bill Tuesday morning that excludes juvenile facilities from laws around punishments for prison riots.
Effort to ban flavored tobacco products in WA revived in legislature
Efforts to ban flavored tobacco products in Washington got a breath of life, as a bill to do so got a committee hearing Monday after the effort was previously assumed dead. House Bill 2068 would ban the sale of flavored tobacco products like vapes and menthol cigarettes starting in July 2027 – with the exception of flavored shisha, which is used in hookah. "These products don’t contribute to the social wellbeing of our communities," prime sponsor Rep.
WA Democrats thinking about revenue options after governor’s criticism
The Brief Democrats in the Washington State Legislature are determining their next steps on revenue options after facing recent criticism. Governor Ferguson said budget proposals from House and Senate Democrats had "far too much in taxes," and shut down a proposed wealth tax because it’s legally untested. OLYMPIA, Wash.
WA lawmakers consider tax based on fuel efficiency to fund transportation
The state House passed their version of a transportation budget Wednesday afternoon, with lawmakers weighing a fee based on a car’s fuel efficiency to pay for part of $15.2 billion in proposed spending over the next two years. House Transportation Committee Chair Jake Fey, D-Tacoma, said legislators have to address the challenge of transportation project costs increasing as revenue from gas taxes is decreasing.
WA lawmakers consider tax based on fuel efficiency to fund transportation
The Brief The state House passed a transportation budget proposing a "highway use fee" based on fuel efficiency to offset declining gas tax revenue, with efficient cars paying higher fees. The fee targets drivers benefiting from fuel efficiency who contribute less to road maintenance, sparking affordability concerns. Lawmakers debate using Climate Commitment Act funds for transportation, with ongoing discussions about the fee's impact. OLYMPIA, Wash.
Gov. Ferguson opposed to wealth tax proposals from legislative Democrats
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson weighed in on legislative Democrats’ budget plans, throwing water on a key proposal to bring in more money to close a multi-billion-dollar projected deficit. "If the legislature wishes to complete our work on time, they need to immediately move the budget discussions in a significantly different direction," the governor told reporters Tuesday afternoon.
Gov. Ferguson opposed to wealth tax proposals from legislative Democrats
The Brief Governor Bob Ferguson criticized Democrats' budget proposals, particularly the wealth tax, due to concerns about its constitutionality and urged a shift in budget discussions. Ferguson stressed protecting state reserves and avoiding uncertain revenue sources, while Democrats aim to reach a budget agreement he can support. Republicans praised Ferguson's opposition to the wealth tax, hoping for further resistance to other tax proposals as negotiations continue before the April 27 deadline.
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