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). […]
Retail sales slow in January, but economic growth continues
Retail sales dipped in January following a strong holiday season but still showed year-over-year growth, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau […]
Rulemaking notice: Retail alcohol product placement
The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) will be seeking input from businesses, especially retailers, on upcoming rulemaking regarding Retail Alcohol […]
Seattle City Council approves police use of “less lethal” weapons
The Seattle City Council voted 6-3 to eliminate restrictions on the use of “less lethal” weapons, including blast balls, pepper spray, and […]
ORC Best Practices Report strengthens public-private partnerships
Organized retail crime (ORC) remains a serious challenge, impacting businesses, employees, and communities across Washington. To combat this growing issue, Washington Retail […]
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 […]
Fiscal note inconsistencies in the 2025 session must be addressed
The fiscal note process in the Washington Legislature is intended to estimate a bill’s financial impact on the state budget before a […]