Expanding Presumptive PTSD Coverage threatens workers’ comp stability
Washington State’s workers’ compensation system covers Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) if proven work-related. In 2018, the Legislature granted presumptive PTSD coverage to […]
Beverage Container Refund Program introduced in Washington
Senate Bill 5502, sponsored by Senator June Robinson (D-38), and its companion, House Bill 1607, introduced by Representative Monica Stonier (D-49), aim […]
Organized Retail Crime bill proposes additional penalties for offenders
HB 1276, which increases penalties for high-dollar organized retail crime (ORC) offenders, was heard Monday in the House Community Safety Committee. The […]
Job growth slows but remains steady in January
The U.S. job market maintained solid growth in January, adding 143,000 jobs despite slowing from previous months. The unemployment rate dipped to […]
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 […]
Amazon’s return-to-office mandate boosts downtown Seattle foot traffic
During the first month of Amazon’s mandate for workers to return to the office five days a week, a report by the […]
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 […]
HB 1517: The wrong approach to digital equity
The Washington Legislature recently held a public hearing on HB 1517, which proposes a $2 tax on smart wireless devices over $250 […]
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 […]
Washington State faces multi-billion-dollar budget deficit
Washington state is grappling with a multi-billion dollar budget deficit after years of increased spending. Estimates on the exact shortfall vary widely, […]
AI Transparency and Disclosure bills advance
Two bills aimed at regulating artificial intelligence (AI) recently passed the House Technology, Economic Development & Veterans Committee along party lines (8-5). […]