Add the ORC Resource Hub widget to your website and help combat organized retail crime
WR, in collaboration with Challenge Seattle and WAORCA, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Organized Retail Crime (ORC) Resource Hub. […]
The business tax burden in Washington is above the national average
By: Washington Research Council State business and occupation (B&O) tax collections are up 258% since 2000. But businesses also pay sales, property, […]
Holiday shopping to hit $125 billion in 2024
The ICSC’s 2024 Thanksgiving Weekend Intentions survey projects consumer spending to reach $125 billion during the five-day shopping period from Thanksgiving to […]
JLARC reviews Paid Family and Medical Leave Program
The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee (JLARC) recently reviewed the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, administered by the […]
Congressman Adam Smith tours Macy’s at Southcenter Mall to address organized retail crime
Congressman Adam Smith (D-9) recently joined the WR Government Affairs team, Southcenter Mall representatives, and Macy’s management for an in-depth tour of […]
Mayor Harrell announces creation of Downtown Activation Team
On November 15, Mayor Bruce Harrell announced that he has signed an Executive Order establishing a Downtown Activation Team (“DAT”). The DAT […]
WR 2025 legislative priorities
Washington’s economy has demonstrated resilience, yet uncertainty remains. Each legislative session, hundreds of state bills directly impact the retail sector. WR’s Policy […]
Washington State’s incoming administration declares support for the ORC Task Force
During the November 7 Washington State Organized Retail Crime Task Force meeting both Governor-Elect Bob Ferguson and Attorney General-Elect Nick Brown made […]
Crime and punishment: No consensus in Olympia
In Olympia, lawmakers are deeply divided on the issue of public safety. Rep. David Hackney, D-Renton, a former federal prosecutor, emphasizes the […]
Washington faces $5.1 billion budget shortfall
Washington state is projected to face a significant budget shortfall of $5.1 billion in the upcoming 2025-27 biennium, according to preliminary estimates. […]
Paid Leave premium rate increase to 0.92% in 2025 due to high usage
The Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) has announced a premium rate increase for Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) starting January […]
King County Summit launches new partnerships and resource hub to combat organized retail crime
On October 2, 2024, the first-ever King County Public Safety Summit on Organized Retail Crime (ORC) convened in Redmond, Washington, bringing together […]