Assistance available for December storm recovery
Washington residents, businesses, and nonprofit organizations impacted by the December 2025 storms and flooding have several opportunities to apply for recovery assistance through state and federal […]
Retail trends show resilience amid policy and workforce shifts
Recent updates from the National Retail Federation (NRF) highlight both opportunities and challenges shaping the retail sector. A new federal tariff refund portal opened in mid-April, allowing importers to […]
Regional Homelessness Authority on the rocks
After its creation with much fanfare a mere 7 years ago, the Regional Homelessness Authority (“RHA”) could be dismantled if Seattle City Councilmember Maritza Rivera and King County Councilmember Rod […]
Mother’s Day spending projected to reach record $38 billion
Mother’s Day spending in the United States is expected to reach a record $38 billion this year, according to a National Retail Federation (NRF) […]
Retail theft funding veto raises concerns across Washington
Photo credit: King5.com Washington retailers and business leaders are raising concerns after Gov. Bob Ferguson vetoed $500,000 in state funding that was […]
Washington CEMA litigation expands after court ruling
One year after the Washington Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Old Navy LLC, litigation under Washington’s Commercial Electronic Mail Act has grown significantly. The […]
Tariffs continue to shape retail outlook in late April
As April 2026 comes to a close, tariffs remain one of the most significant forces influencing the retail sector. While the U.S. Supreme Court […]
L&I invites input on Pregnancy-Accommodation Expansion rulemaking
SB 5217 (Healthy Start Act under RCW 49.92) passed in 2025 will take effect Jan 1, 2027. L&I is inviting input for rulemaking. […]
WR remembers Senator Sam Hunt’s legacy of public service
WR is saddened to learn of the passing of longtime Washington State legislator Sam Hunt. Senator Hunt dedicated decades of service to […]
ICSC Fly-In spotlights Washington’s retail impact
WA State Delegation – Chester Baldwin, Kenneth Katzaroff, Alesha Shemwell (WR Interim CEO), Christian Decker, Rep. Michael Baumgartner, Stephen Pohl, Jim Hill […]
WR Honors the Life and Service of Former Representative Eric Robertson
WR is deeply saddened by the passing of former State Representative Eric Robertson. Throughout his career in public service, as a legislator, […]
WR needs you: Lawmakers need to hear from retailers
With the legislative session behind us, WR is already focused on the interim and the work ahead. While lawmakers may have left Olympia, advocacy […]