Medicaid cuts imperil rural care: Two dozen rural hospitals from Anacortes to Goldendale are teetering with razor-thin margins, and cuts in the July 4 federal reconciliation bill could force service closures in coming years — find out what’s at stake.
Washington homebuying made simple: From crunching numbers and securing pre-approval to inspections and closing day, this local guide breaks down every step for first-time buyers statewide — find out.
Electrification program off course: Washington’s plan to convert six vessels and build 16 plug-in ferries by 2040 is faltering, with only one hybrid-electric conversion days away from service and none of the new boats due this decade — find out if lawmakers can steer it back on track.
Imagination Library continues in NCW: Superintendent Chris Reykdal has secured a one-year extension to keep Dolly Parton’s book-gifting program delivering free reads to children across North Central Washington — find out how to enroll.
Draft buffer rule aims for cooler streams: A proposed Forest Practices Board rule would expand riparian tree buffers along small forest streams in Western Washington to reduce warming and protect habitat — see how you can weigh in.
LGBTQ+ healthcare hurdles: New WSU research reveals significant disparities in access and treatment faced by Washington’s LGBTQ+ community — find out what’s at stake.
Two-hour oyster pilgrimage: Ditch the city bars and head to Hama Hama’s farm-front saloon on Hood Canal, where six generations of oyster farming meet wood-smoke ambiance and all-day outdoor seating — find out what makes this two-hour drive so irresistible.
Scammer fined $8.2 million: A Michigan-based operator was ordered by a King County court to pay $7.4 million in penalties and $850,000 in restitution after a decade of deceptive mailers that tricked thousands of Washington small businesses into buying unneeded workplace posters — find out.
Rural food clients speak up: WSDA’s Photovoice report spotlights experiences of six Northeast Washington pantry users on communication, nutrition and fresh produce access — learn what’s next.
Other Washington headlines this week
- Washington expands paid family and medical leave
- WA launches hate-crime hotline in three counties
- Budget cuts won’t derail Washington State Parks
- State plan reconnects habitats, cuts wildlife collisions
- Record Washington cherry crop meets strong demand
- Washington halved diaper grants for low-income families
- Chelan hosts Blake Relief Day July 18
- Group14 lays off workers in Washington state
