Idaho leaders urged to address systemic failures following prison abuse reports
InvestigateWest reporters uncovered years of sexual abuse by women’s prison guards prompting calls for independent investigation
Government
Idaho keeps some psychiatric patients in prison, ignoring decades of warnings about the practice
A temporary program for “dangerously mentally ill” patients has continued for five decades, despite calls from critics to provide better care. Soon, Idaho will be the only state still using prisons to house patients who face no criminal charges
With pipeline growth booming, the US agency in charge of safety struggles to keep up
Pipeline miles expand every year, and are expected to see even faster growth in the near future thanks to major federal laws.
Cascadia bullet train stuck at the station as feds dole out big bucks for rail
Supporters say the dream of a speedy train between Portland and Vancouver, BC, is not derailed. Meanwhile, other rail fans want to see more money directed to existing Amtrak lines in the region.
Some Republicans were willing to compromise on abortion ban exceptions. Activists made sure they didn’t.
A review of 12 of the nation’s strictest abortion bans. Few changed in 2023, as state lawmakers caved to pressure from anti-abortion groups opposing exceptions for rape, incest and health risks.
West Coast leaders urge feds to reverse decision allowing natural gas pipeline expansion
The expansion would allow 150 million more cubic feet of gas – on top of the 2 billion now – to be delivered to the region each day.
Oregon judge rules that voter-approved Measure 114 gun safety law violates the state constitution
State lawyers say they will appeal. A federal judge has ruled the measure legal under the U.S. Constitution.
Idaho forms statewide public defence agency, easing county burden after lawsuits over legal representation gaps
The Office of the State Public Defender was created under legislation passed in 2023
Over 100 detainees go on hunger strike against poor conditions for immigrants at Tacoma detention center
Over 100 people are refusing meals at the privately-run Northwest Detention Center, which has a history of controversy and similar strikes.
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.