Washington courts rarely discipline guardians ad litem accused of misconduct in custody cases
Minimal oversight of court investigators makes it difficult for parents to challenge flawed reports without risking damage to their cases
Government
WA’s new drug law could help needle exchanges — or restrict them
The possession bill passed this year includes $63M for treatment centers. But it also gives local governments the power to regulate them.
WA spent $500M to help small, minority businesses. Did it work?
An analysis of Working Washington grants found mixed results on equity initiatives and millions for large chains or franchises.
Advocacy group calls for closing Coffee Creek, overhauling Oregon Department of Corrections
Oregon Justice Resource Center calls Gov. Tina Kotek’s response to troubled women’s prison inadequate
Does Washington need a new agency to oversee jails?
A state task force is eyeing the idea. The agency would have the power to push for closure of troubled facilities.
A SW Washington sheriff pushes the limits of official powers while in training
Pacific County Sheriff Daniel Garcia’s first nine months have been marked with frequent conflicts with other elected officials. But, to him, he’s reclaiming the power of the sheriff.
Oregon corrections officer charged with sexual abuse faced earlier investigation, but DA declined to charge him
The correctional officer faced allegations of inappropriate behavior from at least two other women.
The outlook for new statewide renter protections in Washington
After failed attempts this year, the debate over how to best shield tenants from unaffordable price hikes will likely return in the next legislative session.
The long struggle over taxing the rich
States’ taxes lean most heavily on poorer residents. These states are trying to change that.
WA senators just released more previously redacted records
Leaders said they didn’t have more hiddeninformation, but memos show blacked-out emails to cannabis lobbyists and texts with redacted bill names.
Some Idaho Republicans worry presidential caucus will reduce turnout, divide party
Idaho Legislature mistakenly eliminated the state’s presidential primary election earlier this year