Five years after the pandemic: Is retail back to normal?
A Target employee wearing a mask works in an aisle of toys. Courtesy of Target Five years after the pandemic lockdowns, the retail […]
Bad news week for Seattle Mayor Harrell
It has been a rough week for Mayor Bruce Harrell as he launches his reelection campaign, with multiple news stories casting his […]
Democrats unveil multi-billion tax packages
Senate Democrats have unveiled a $17 billion slate of new taxes to support their budget. Measures include taxes on wealth (SB 5797), […]
Packaging recycling bill appears to stall in House
Photo by Washington State Standard SB 5284, the extended producer responsibility (EPR) bill for packaging, sponsored by Senator Liz Lovelett (D-40), appears […]
Tobacco & Nicotine Tax proposals could backfire on Washington’s budget goals
Washington lawmakers are considering two major tax proposals, HB 2033 and HB 1416, that target tobacco, vapor, and nicotine products. While both […]
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 […]
From strain to crisis: Lawmakers consider crushing employment costs for retailers
Washington retailers have faced staggering payroll cost increases in recent years, and pending legislation threatens to make the financial strain unsustainable. Key […]
WR urges Senate to address root causes of rising workers disability rates
The Senate Labor Committee recently held a hearing on HB 1788, a bill that standardizes temporary total disability (TTD) payments for injured […]
WR hosts virtual meeting on Alcohol Product Placement Rulemaking
The Washington State Liquor & Cannabis Board (LCB) is considering new rules on retail alcohol product placement, and WR is actively engaging […]
Main Street and cryptocurrency leaders unite for payment innovation
The Merchants Payments Coalition (MPC) and the Payment Choice Coalition (PCC) have announced a strategic partnership to drive innovation, competition, and consumer […]
Retail sales modest amid consumer caution
February retail sales data released by the U.S. Census Bureau showed a slight month-over-month increase of 0.2%, with a 3.1% rise compared […]
Washington State revenue forecast adjusted down by $844 million
The Economic and Revenue Forecast Council (ERFC) has revised its projections, estimating that Near General Fund Outlook (NGFO) revenues will be $844 […]