Minimum wage hike and paid leave mandates face strong opposition
This week, the House and Senate held hearings on HB 1764 / SB 5578, which propose raising the minimum wage to $25/hour […]
Washington Fair Chance Act expansion raises employer concerns
Washington’s Fair Chance Act could see significant expansion under HB 1747, a proposed bill that further restricts employers from considering criminal records […]
Washington State plastic producer registration & reporting now open
The 2024 registration and reporting cycle for plastic producers in Washington State is now open. All producers of covered products must register […]
February 21 marks legislature’s first cutoff
Friday, February 21, marks the first legislative cutoff, meaning all bills must be voted out of their original committees. To advance, a […]
Washington Retail Association Board of Directors convenes in Olympia – February 13, 2025
Governor Bob Ferguson with WR staff and board members. The Washington Retail Association (WR) held its Winter Legislative Board of Directors meeting […]
Washingtonians struggle with rising grocery prices
A recent Washington State Food Security Survey reveals that grocery prices are taking a toll on households across the state. Conducted between […]
Organized retail crime ring busted in Puget Sound
Image of two suspects stealing items from a store in footage shared by police on Feb. 4, 2025. Credit: Renton Police Department […]
Proposed rulemaking mandates employer address updates; Public comment open
The Employment Security Department (ESD) has proposed a new rule requiring employers to notify the Department of any address changes within 30 […]
Retailers sound the alarm as concerning data privacy bill advances
Despite widespread opposition from retailers, small businesses, and industry groups, HB 1671 has advanced out of the House Technology, Economic Development, and […]
What’s in store for 2025
Last year, consumers once again demonstrated resilience, showing a willingness to spend despite economic challenges such as inflation and rising interest rates. […]
February 21 marks legislature’s first cutoff
Friday, February 21, marks the first legislative cutoff, meaning all bills must be voted out of their original committees. To advance, a […]
Annual reporting deadline for large refrigeration & A/C systems
The deadline for the 2025 annual report is fast approaching! Businesses with refrigeration or air conditioning systems containing 1,500 pounds or more […]