What we are tracking — WR Legislative Hot List
WR is closely monitoring the bills that have advanced through the legislative process. Each week, we’ll spotlight our weekly “hot list” key legislation that could […]
WR joins NRF for its State Legislative Leadership Experience
WR had a strong presence at NRF’s Big Show this year. WR Director of Policy and Government Affairs, Crystal Leatherman, and Interim CEO, Alesha […]
You’re invited: Legislative retail reception
You’re warmly invited to a special reception where you will have the opportunity to connect with your Washington State legislators. Join us […]
You’re invited tonight to The Future of Washington Commerce — A Small Business Success Celebration
WR is proud to co-host an exclusive reception with TikTok this evening, celebrating the success of Washington’s small businesses and the growing […]
Study highlights challenges for new business survival in Washington
A recent national study places Washington at the bottom of the country for new business survival, raising questions about the factors shaping […]
HB 2209: A targeted response to organized retail crime
Organized retail crime (ORC) and large-scale retail theft continue to threaten worker safety, community access, and Washington’s economy. WR is proud to […]
WA lawmakers, make this the year to draw a line on spending
Image: Nick Wagner / The Seattle Times, 2025 Published in the Seattle Times By the Seattle Times Editorial Board January 11, 2026 New year, […]
Textile EPR legislation discussions continue in Washington
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles remains an active and evolving policy discussion in Washington. HB 1420, sponsored by Rep. Kristine Reeves (D-30), was introduced during the 2025 […]
Governor outlines priorities and bipartisanship in State of the State
Image: The Olympian Governor Bob Ferguson delivered his first State of the State address on January 13, saying Washington remains strong despite […]
SB 5796 and HB 2274 are critical to protect Washington retailers from Commercial Electronic Mail Act abuse
Washington’s Commercial Electronic Mail Act (CEMA), enacted in 1998, regulates commercial email sent from a computer located in Washington or to Washington residents. For decades, […]
January emerges as a critical month for retail operations
For many retailers, January is no longer a slow period following the holidays. Instead, it has become a second peak driven by […]
What retailers are watching in the new year
As retailers look ahead to 2026, National Retail Federation experts point to a year shaped by evolving consumer behavior, rapid technology adoption, and continued policy and […]