News

OLYMPIA — Sen. Nikki Torres, R-Pasco, issued the following statement after the latest state operating budget proposal removed a previously approved public defense funding provision and bipartisan legislation aimed at addressing Washington’s growing public defense crisis stalled this session. Earlier this session, the Senate approved a proposal dedicating seven percent of revenue from the Democrats’...

OLYMPIA — Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, released the following statement after the Legislature gave final approval to Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6346, legislation establishing a new state income tax on individuals earning more than $1 million annually. “I strongly condemn the passage of this income tax. It’s being marketed as a ‘millionaire’s tax,’ but if...

A longtime Central Washington legislator is leaving the state Senate—but not right away. Tracy Ellis explains.

Sen. Phil Fortunato, R-Auburn, breaks down Washington’s exploding state budget, which has doubled in a decade, and asks what taxpayers have to show for it. From rising homelessness and energy costs to new tax proposals, Fortunato argues lawmakers should focus on accountability, spending priorities, and results for families across Washington today.

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Legislature has approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Matt Boehnke to improve how students track their progress on state and federal financial aid applications. Substitute Senate Bill 5841 aims to integrate financial aid application data into Washington’s universal High School and Beyond Plan platform, allowing students, families, and authorized school staff...

Senator Keith Goehner reviews the final days of the legislative session. He discusses the millionaire tax debate, concerns over law enforcement oversight, budget pressures, transportation funding shortfalls, and broader worries about fiscal stability, urging constituents to stay engaged and informed about new laws.

The Chinook Indian Nation is honored in the Washington State Senate. Tracy Ellis reports.

This end‑of‑session discussion with Senator Shelly Short and Representative Hunter Abell covers bill negotiations, budget battles, income‑tax controversy, rural policy impacts, and legislative drama behind the scenes. They address constituent questions, oversight concerns, and key victories while previewing the final days of Washington’s 2026 legislative session.

Special crash-prevention zones could soon be created on Washington roads with high numbers of serious crashes. Tracy Ellis explains.

Senator Jeff Wilson discusses the passage of his kit‑home bill aimed at improving housing affordability in Washington. He explains how kit homes offer an additional, cost‑effective housing option for families, including ADUs. Wilson emphasizes their long history, ease of assembly, and potential to expand accessible housing choices.

Senate Republican Leader John Braun describes his recent meeting with the governor. Braun raises concerns about rising fentanyl‑related child deaths and stalled child‑protection bills in the Legislature. He notes bipartisan Senate support for action but says key House committee members are blocking progress.

Senator Mark Schoesler outlines concerns about the state’s proposed income tax and the significant differences between budget plans in the Legislature. He warns that relying on one‑time funds, unrealistic growth assumptions, and a likely court challenge creates serious long‑term fiscal risk, leaving future lawmakers accountable for today’s decisions.