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Bill would provide low-income student tuition at two-year colleges, tech schools
A measure that would waive tuition and fees for eligible students attending two-year community colleges and technical schools in the U.S. beginning next year has been reintroduced in Congress.
Bipartisan, 33-state coalition sues Meta, alleging harms to youth mental health
The lawsuit alleges that Meta “designed and deployed harmful features on Instagram and Facebook that addict children and teens” and seeks injunctive and monetary relief.
Feds add public meetings on Washington grizzly bear restoration
Two federal agencies overseeing a proposal to reintroduce grizzly bears in Washington state’s North Cascades ecosystem have added two more in-person meetings to receive public comment.
Ex-bank manager pleads guilty to stealing nearly $1.28M from vulnerable customers
A former bank manager from Washington recently pled guilty to stealing over $1 million, primarily elderly or disabled clients.
Washington state commission plots pathway toward universal health care system
One legal hurdle for the commission is the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act, which preempts state laws on various aspects of health care.
Yakima explores new and increased taxes ahead of expected deficit, mum on cuts
Some officials question whether residents, especially seniors, can handle more taxes.
Car dealers protest proposal allowing direct EV sales in Washington state
Recent public testimony offered on the draft TES indicates that many of its recommendations or goals have numerous logistical and political hurdles ahead.
Congressional bill aims to aid military families on school meal costs
(The Center Square) – A bill reintroduced in Congress Friday seeks to increase the eligibility of children of military families to qualify for free and reduced-price school meals by removing the service members’ housing allowance from an income calculation.
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Chances of FEMA disaster declaration for Spokane County wildfires ‘probably slim’
(The Center Square) – It looks like Spokane County won't be getting as much federal aid as anticipated related to the recent area wildfires.
“We’ve done some damage assessments for the public assistance program, which is anything to do with infrastructure,” said Assistant Director of Operations for the Washington State Emergency Management Division Stacey McClain at Tuesday morning's Spokane Count
Washington public pension system expected to be fully funded by 2027
(The Center Square) – Washington state’s public pension system is expected to be fully funded by 2027, according to the Office of the State Actuary. However, ongoing contributions will still be required for most of the 11 pension plans.
Current...