A 2021 law expanded Washington’s power to decertify police officers. Records show cops still avoid consequences
An InvestigateWest review shows how Washington police agencies keep hiring cops accused of serious misconduct
Government
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
How a new Idaho superintendent is tapping far-right connections to refashion a school district
Teachers flee the small district, fearing the impact of a right-wing politician’s appointment
Federal aid is supercharging local WA police surveillance tech
Pandemic relief funds are bankrolling new – and often unregulated – law enforcement tools such as license-plate readers, drones and AI video software.
High gas prices fuel talk of anti-gouging measures, cap-and-trade tweaks
Washington’s new climate policy is taking heat for the state’s highest-in-the-nation prices at the pump. But the law’s backers say oil companies are to blame.
Federal judge upholds Oregon law banning large ammunition magazines, requiring permit to buy guns
Measure 114 remains remains on hold until at least September as a separate state court case proceeds
WA auditors flag $1.2B in federal aid over incomplete records
State agencies said most dollars are accounted for, but unclear guidance on pandemic relief made complying with reporting rules difficult.
Idaho awards $1.2 billion contract for behavioral health. Both losing bidders sue.
New managed care organization to oversee mental health, substance abuse treatment for 425,000 Idahoans
How local laws restrict the location of subsidized housing
New research looks at how zoning policies push these homes into pockets of the Puget Sound region where jobs and services are lacking compared to wealthier areas.
Why many judges in WA won’t order abusers to turn in guns
State and federal court decisions threaten to override Washington’s firearm surrender law
In Eastern Washington, victims seeking protection steer clear of a judge accused of domestic violence himself
Attorneys say there’s little accountability for judges who may show bias against victims
Low-income domestic violence survivors face uphill battle in obtaining court-ordered protections
Advocates urge more funding for housing, shelters and legal services as well as consistent policy implementation