politics
WA Legislature fails to pass new drug law; special session likely
After two years of unsuccessful negotiations, Washington may not have a law against drug possession starting in July.
Joseph O’Sullivan
Joseph O’Sullivan is Crosscut’s former state politics reporter. Before joining Crosscut in 2022, O’Sullivan spent nearly eight years as Olympia bureau reporter for The Seattle Times. Before that, he c
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politics
The bills that survived Washington's 2023 legislative session
From gun regulations to affordable housing and a new state dinosaur, these are the initiatives that passed — and some that were not so lucky.
politics
Washington Legislature unveils $69.2B two-year state budget
Completed with less than 36 hours left in the 2023 session, the budget boosts funding for state worker wages, special education and climate issues.
politics
Washington state bans sale of most semi-automatic rifles
Citizens can still own assault-style rifles — but they will not be able to buy or import most AR-type weapons after HB 1240 is signed.
politics
WA governor's race could decide the fate of state transparency law
Meanwhile, state lawmakers will defend their use of 'legislative privilege' to hide messages from the public in a case brought by the Washington Coalition of Open Government and others.