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 […]
House passes unemployment insurance for striking workers
In a narrow vote, the House of Representatives passed SB 5041, which would extend unemployment insurance (UI) benefits to workers on strike, […]
Executive Order challenges state climate laws, Including Washington’s CCA
President Trump signed an executive order this week challenging state-level climate policies, including Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA). The order directs attorneys […]
Hardware Sales’ Ty McClellan named Business Person of the Year
Image: Whatcom Business Alliance Congratulations to Ty McClellan, owner of Hardware Sales, for being named “Business Person of the Year” at the […]
White House Executive Order aims to bolster U.S. maritime industry and supply chains
A general view of the Victorian International container terminal in Melbourne, Australia, on April 4, 2025. Asanka Ratnayake via Getty Images On […]
Tariff changes announced in new Executive Order
The White House has issued an Executive Order modifying U.S. tariff rates, with immediate implications for retailers and importers. Effective April 10, […]
Senate passes Public Safety Bill
HB 2015, establishing public safety grants and enabling local governments to implement long-term funding, has passed the Senate with bipartisan support. The […]
Packaging bill passes House – Bottle bill stalls
SB 5284, the packaging or Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) measure, passed the House following over four hours of heated debate that continued […]
PNWER Annual Summit offers unique cross-border collaboration opportunity
The Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER) will host its 34th Annual Summit from July 20–24, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency in Bellevue, […]
Preparing for FIFA World Cup 2026: Viewing party best practices webinar
The Seattle Metro Chamber, in partnership with the Seattle Sports Commission, is offering a free webinar on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from […]
New budget shortfall leads Mayor Harrell to consider cuts and new progressive taxes
Seattle is facing a projected $240 million shortfall in tax revenue for the 2025–2026 biennium, prompting Mayor Bruce Harrell to direct city […]
Retail sales see modest growth amid tariff uncertainty
Retail sales rose moderately in March following two months of declines, according to the latest CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor powered by Affinity Solutions. […]