Local

Washington lawmakers are pushing to increase the state cigarette tax by $2 per pack to reduce smoking rates and fund public health programs, despite opposition from the tobacco industry.

House Bill 2100, which would impose a 5 percent tax on high-wage jobs at large companies in Washington state, is sparking debate among lawmakers, business leaders, and economic advocates over its potential impact on jobs and public funding.

Dr. Norward Brooks, '71 MBA, has been named the 2026 Seattle University Alumnus of the Year in recognition of his long record of public service and professional achievement.

Governor Bob Ferguson and Attorney General Nick Brown of Washington State have pledged to challenge federal directives allowing ICE agents to forcibly enter homes without judicial warrants, in response to the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by ICE in Minneapolis.

State lawmakers in Washington are advancing House Bill 2238, a measure sponsored by Rep. Kristine Reeves (D), which aims to establish a comprehensive, year-round food security strategy. The bill, unanimously approved by the House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources, mandates the Washington State Department of Agriculture to spearhead efforts to combat hunger and address diet-related health disparities across the state.

A legislative proposal, House Bill 1557, introduced by Rep. Julia Reed, seeks to create the Washington Guaranteed Admissions Program (WAGAP), which would grant automatic admission to eligible students at select universities. The initiative aims to increase enrollment and motivate more students to pursue higher education.

Stacker compiled a list of cities with the most expensive homes in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA metro area using data from Zillow Increasing mortgage rates have slowed growth, with prices even declining in some places. But some areas are still seeing price jumps compared to the year before.

Judge LeRoy McCullough retired from the King County Superior Court after 50 years of service, leaving a legacy of justice, dignity, and commitment to equity and community service.

Seattle honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by holding an event that included an Opportunity Fair, workshops, a rally, and a march, reminding attendees that King's work is unfinished and that his dream requires daily action to fight for justice, equity, and unity.

Byrd Barr Place is leading a statewide Community Needs Assessment to amplify the voices of Black people across Washington state and address the challenges facing Black communities.