
Washington in Focus
513 episodes — Page 2 of 11
Ep 466Washington In Focus Daily | 3.10.26 | All Night Fight Over Income Tax & Policing Reform Update
Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Mar. 10, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Republicans spend the whole night fighting the new income tax bill, a law enforcement reform bill passes alongside an important policing amendment, and an update on the new media lawsuit over press credentialing. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 465Washington In Focus Daily | 3.09.26 | Income Tax Faces Major Opposition & New Media Lawsuit Update
Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Mar. 9, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Democrats keep making changes to the new income tax bill, a Washington state senator defends his language during a floor hearing, and an update on the new media lawsuit over press credentialing. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 464Washington In Focus Daily | 3.06.26 | Dems Change Income Tax Bill & Sheriff Decertification Passes
Washington in Focus Daily | Friday Mar. 6, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Democrats are making changes to the new income tax bill, the sheriff decertification bill passes, and a conversation surrounding a city's ability to restrict federal law enforcement from operating in their jurisdictions. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 463Washington In Focus Daily | 3.05.26 | Dems Split On Income Tax? Rate Hikes For Energy Bills?
Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Mar. 5, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Democrats appear to be torn on how to move foward with an income tax bill, energy bills maybe going up as PSE says they need to hike rate, and a lawsuit is filed of the DOL data breach. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 462Washington In Focus Daily | 3.03.26 | SCOTUS Sides With Parents & New Changes To Income Tax Bill?
Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Mar. 3, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the Supreme Court rules in favor of parental rights, the impact of SCOTUS' decision in Washington, and the latest on the new income tax bill. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 461Washington In Focus Daily | 3.02.26 | Fiery Hearing On Child Welfare Reform & Law Enforcement Funding Stalled
Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Mar. 2, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Passionate testimony on The Keeping Families Together Act swept through the legislature, Cities fight for funding for law enforcement, and the latest on the new income tax bill. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 460Washington In Focus Daily | 2.27.26 | Income Tax Debate Intensifies & Dems Stop Fraud Crackdown
Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Feb. 26, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Washington is one step closer to introducing an income tax, a new bill would allow foreign nationals in state law enforcement, and amendments to crackdown on fraud are halted by Democrats. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 459Washington In Focus Daily | 2.26.26 | Fitzgibbon Intoxicated On The Job & GOP Reacts To The Scandal
Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Feb. 25, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Rep Joe Fitzgibbon admits to being intoxicated during a congressional budget hearing, Democrats quietly plan to roll back the estate tax hikes they implemented, and a bill to reduce taxes on luxury aircrafts may pass in Washington. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 458Washington In Focus Daily | 2.25.26 | Democrats Want Higher Taxes & No Tort Reform In Washington
Washington in Focus Daily | Wednesday Feb. 25, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, debate intensifies in Washington over newly proposed income taxes, Democrats continue to defend raising taxes, and no tort reform will happen this year in Washington. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 457Washington In Focus Daily | 2.24.26 | Heated Hearing On Income Tax & The Largest Budget Proposal Yet
Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Feb. 24, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, debate intensifies in Washington over newly proposed income taxes, Washington proposes a budget $2 Billion more than last year's, and law enforcement communities are not happy with new law enforcement reform bills. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 456Washington In Focus Daily | 2.23.26 | Income Tax Debate & Sheriff Swank On Law Enforcement Reform
Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Feb. 23, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, debate continues in Washington over newly proposed income taxes, Sheriff Keith Swank gives his take on new law enforcement reform bills , and we preview what's ahead this week in Washington state. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 455Weekend Edition | WA child welfare Policy stalls as parties clash over parental drug abuse
(The Center Square) - Washington Democratic leadership Wednesday told The Center Square there is disagreement between Republicans and Democrats about the best way to respond to the tragic number of children dying or suffering critical incidents in homes with drug-addicted parents. Republicans have been trying for years to amend the Keeping Families Together Act and the “imminent harm” threshold for removing a child from a home where there is drug abuse, and/or neglect. As reported by The Center Square, supporters of a fix say the definition of imminent harm needs to be changes, as it is currently leading to children being sent back to homes where lethal drugs are present and, in many cases, led to their death. There were more critical incidents in 2025 than ever before. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 454Washington In Focus Daily | 2.18.26 | NBA May Snub Seattle & Possible New Taxes On Tobacco
Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Feb. 19th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Gov. Bob Ferguson reportedly met with NBA commissioner Adam Silver over the league's concerns with the Sonics returning due to the new wealth tax , a new tax on tobacco products may hit Washington , and the state is draining pensions funds for law enforcement officers to fund climate policy. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 453Washington In Focus Daily | 2.18.26 | What Is Really Happening With the New Tax Plan In Washington?
Washington in Focus Daily | Wednesday Feb. 18th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Gov. Bob Ferguson details his plans to help working families and small businesses with the Democrat's new tax plan , child welfare reform bills continue to not get passed , and the 'Initiative Killer Bill' fails in Washington. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 452Washington In Focus Daily | 2.17.26 | Tax Hikes Become Law & Heated Debate Over Child Welfare Laws
Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Feb. 17th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, the state has raised taxes on high earners, Democrats are quietly trying to roll back their estate tax hikes , and two congressmen get into a heated debate over 'The Keeping Families Together Act'. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 450Weekend Edition | Lawsuit filed over denial of press credentials to journalists by WA House
(The Center Square) - A lawsuit has been filed by the Citizens Action Defense Fund against the Washington state House and other entities for the denial of press credentials to several independent journalists, which the suit claims violates their First Amendment rights. Last year, the Capitol Correspondents Association, one of the defendants in the lawsuit, handed its press credentialing authority to the state Legislature after decades of overseeing that role. To obtain a House press pass, an individual has to apply by filling out an online form. Media credentials allow individuals to attend media availability press conferences as well as access areas of the state Capitol not otherwise open to the public. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 451Washington In Focus Daily | 2.12.26 | Trump's DOE Targets Washington & Dems work to stop initiatives
Washington in Focus Daily | Friday Feb. 13th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, Republicans are fighting back against limiting initiatives, Trump's Dept. Of Education is investigating the Puyallup school district , and Spokane's drinking water is found to be contamindated with dangers levels of PFAS. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 449Washington In Focus Daily | 2.12.26 | Abortion pill distribution drama & massive bonds for transit
Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Feb. 12th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, concerns over Washington's ability to distribute abortion pills nationwide take center stage, activists warn there are unreported risks these pills pose to women, and the state has passed legislation to fund Sound Transit with bonds for 75 years. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 448High taxes threaten high earners, lessening charges against predators & new media sues Washington
Washington in Focus Daily | Wednesday Feb. 11th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, income tax proposal sparks concerns over high earners leaving the state, politicians are trying to lessen charges against predators who fail to register, and Washington is being sued after restricting some new media members press accessibility. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 447Proposed tax hike, child welfare concerns, and new media restrictions in Washington
Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Feb. 10th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, income tax proposal sparks massive opposition, critics claim the 'Keep Families Together Act' may endanger children, and Washington Democrats are restricting some new media. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 445Weekend Edition | Washington bill proposals impacting income tax, local camping bans, & the Public Records Act
Majority Democrats in Washington on Tuesday rolled out the much-anticipated income tax bill. Senate Bill 6346, with Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, as the prime sponsor, is being called by supporters the ‘millionaire’s tax’ as it’s a 9.9% tax on income over one million dollars. House Democrats advanced two proposals Monday that local officials fear could undo all the work Spokane has done downtown over the past several months to tackle public camping. HB 2489 would prohibit cities from enforcing camping bans unless they can afford to house every homeless person with their pets and belongings in the immediate area. As Washington state senators contemplate a proposal that would exempt some state employees' identities from public disclosure, a House bill would set up a task force that one critic says would “gut” the Public Records Act and undermine government transparency. Proponents argue that the task force will help tackle what they consider to be overly burdensome, expensive or frivolous requests meant to harass local governments. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 446Income tax hearing & medical debt interest rates | Washington in Focus Daily | 2.6.26
Washington in Focus Daily | Friday Feb. 6th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, income tax proposal sparks massive opposition, superintendent Chris Reykdal talks with Carleen about parental rights and girls sports initiatives, and bill to reduce medical debt interest rates moves off the senate floor Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 444Education tax credits & insurance fraud possibly upgraded to felony | Washington in focus daily
Washington in Focus Daily | Thursday Feb. 5th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today’s show, state superintendent Chris Reykdal apposes federal tax credit for education, state insurance commissioner Patty Kruderer supports bill to make insurance fraud a felony and public records requests could be limited for school districts Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 443WA Senate passes bill banning law enforcement from wearing masks amid ICE activity
(The Center Square) - The Washington State Senate advanced a proposal Wednesday that would prohibit all law enforcement from wearing masks with many immigration agents wearing face coverings they say they need to protect them from harassment and doxxing. Gov. Bob Ferguson announced his support for the idea earlier this month as state Democrats proposed several bills that could impede federal immigration enforcement. Wednesday’s floor vote sends Senate Bill 5855 to the state House.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxxRead more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_99476763-d74d-4e3e-9eea-bb4ea08a39d7.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 442Hearing set on bills inspired by whistleblower to stop NGO self-dealing
(The Center Square) - A whistleblower who exposed alleged self-dealing within taxpayer-funded grant programs says Attorney General Nick Brown's staff still hasn't interviewed her, months after assigning an investigator. The allegations center around non-profits funded by the Washington State Community Reinvestment Program (CRP) and other race-based programs funded by taxpayers at the federal and state level.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_fbe2e805-06a5-465c-99d6-ea077609ca8d.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 441Weekend Edition | 'Initiative Killer' bill faces intense backlash during heated WA hearing
(The Center Square) - A bill that changes the state's initiative process was touted by supporters as stopping aggressive signature gatherers and wealthy special interests on Tuesday, but critics dubbed it "anti-Democratic" and an “initiative killer." The legislation-SB 5973- sponsored by Sen. Javier Valdez, D-Seattle, would require a “demonstration of support before issuance of a ballot measure title and authorize citizen actions for certain signature gatherer compensation violations,” according to the bill summary. The bill would require a minimum of 1000 signatures be submitted as part of the filing of a proposed initiative or referendum. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 440WA fund raids undermining efforts to boost housing supply, advocates warn
(The Center Square) - As the Washington legislative session continues discussions around bills to boost the housing supply, building industry advocates are warning that continued raids on an account meant to fund local infrastructure projects can undermine any new legislation. “Not only is this concerning for anyone looking for a place to call home, but it also means less revenue for state and local governments,” the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties wrote in a statement to The Center Square.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_d58acfc2-3dbc-4dd1-8d83-3bdff1a54fd6.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 439'Initiative Killer' bill faces intense backlash during heated WA hearing
(The Center Square) - A bill that changes the state's initiative process was touted by supporters as stopping aggressive signature gatherers and wealthy special interests on Tuesday, but critics dubbed it "anti-Democratic" and an “initiative killer." The legislation-SB 5973- sponsored by Sen. Javier Valdez, D-Seattle, would require a “demonstration of support before issuance of a ballot measure title and authorize citizen actions for certain signature gatherer compensation violations,” according to the bill summary.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_c0878914-4d64-4953-94a0-b55041116d9a.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 438Weekend Edition | Seattle leaders condemn ICE & Gov. Ferguson champions 'millionaire's tax'
Seattle city leaders continue to condemn U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good by ICE agent Jonathan Ross during an enforcement operation in Minneapolis, Minn., earlier this month, while some of Washington’s conservative leaders warn the rhetoric could contribute to further civil unrest. Gov. Bob Ferguson on Tuesday delivered his State of the State address before a joint session of state lawmakers on Day 2 of the 60-day legislative session that began Monday, spotlighting the state’s resiliency by highlighting the response to recent flooding and throwing his support behind a so-called “millionaire’s tax.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 437WA DCYF child care reimbursement rates could increase by 30% from 2021 levels
(The Center Square) – As ongoing controversy persists over alleged fraud with Department of Children, Youth & Families Working Connections Childcare Program, Gov. Bob Ferguson’s proposed 2026 supplemental operating budget could increase the reimbursement rates for licensed home-based child care providers by 30%.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_0c79cfe6-7b01-4960-b901-599f84df051c.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 436Gov. Ferguson champions 'millionaire's tax' during State of the State address
(The Center Square) – Gov. Bob Ferguson on Tuesday delivered his State of the State address before a joint session of state lawmakers on Day 2 of the 60-day legislative session that began Monday, spotlighting the state’s resiliency by highlighting the response to recent flooding and throwing his support behind a so-called “millionaire’s tax.”Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_4a2fc29a-0333-4352-958b-bc224699d76f.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 435Seattle leaders condemn ICE; conservatives warn rhetoric could spark unrest
(The Center Square) – Seattle city leaders continue to condemn U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good by ICE agent Jonathan Ross during an enforcement operation in Minneapolis, Minn., earlier this month, while some of Washington’s conservative leaders warn the rhetoric could contribute to further civil unrest.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxxRead more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_67243672-f718-4937-858a-5d5263184a0f.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 434Ecology confirms Commerce ‘significantly inflated’ CCA emissions reductions
(The Center Square) – The state Department of Ecology has admitted that a recent report on carbon emission reductions through projects financed by the Climate Commitment Act was “significantly inflated” by the Department of Commerce after one environmental analyst previously questioned the effectiveness of several projects. Commerce has now sent back revised figures.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_c70afc51-e4ea-4997-bf2d-2d77afd71129.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 433Weekend Edition | 'Flabbergasted’ WA daycare owner frustrated over alleged Somali fraud in industry
(The Center Square) – As more is revealed about the potential daycare fraud within the Somali community in Washington state and the Department of Children, Youth & Families scrambles to respond, one large daycare provider is sharing his frustrations with The Center Square. On Monday, The Center Square visited several Somali-run home daycares in Federal Way, but found only one home with a few children inside. Others did not answer knocks on the front door, grew confrontational – calling the police, or conceded they don’t currently have children enrolled. "Anyone who's in the industry is, like, flabbergasted,” said daycare owner David McMullan, who also chairs the Pierce County Republicans. “How are they getting that money and we're not?” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 432WA SAO audits found inadequate DCYF oversight over child care subsidy program
(The Center Square) - The Washington State Auditor’s Office in recent years has concluded that the state Department of Children, Youth, and Families lacked adequate oversight over its child care subsidy program, according to audits obtained by The Center Square.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_e6be9287-dd97-45ae-97ed-317969bdd988.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 431'Flabbergasted’ WA daycare owner frustrated over alleged Somali fraud in industry
(The Center Square) – As more is revealed about the potential daycare fraud within the Somali community in Washington state and the Department of Children, Youth & Families scrambles to respond, one large daycare provider is sharing his frustrations with The Center Square.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_12522a63-4ed1-493a-911e-67e0673045a1.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 430Seattle police: Arrests for drug use remain in place under clarified LEAD policy
(The Center Square) – The Seattle Police Department has clarified that officers will continue to make arrests for drug-related charges when probable cause exists, with the City Attorney’s Office then determining next steps, including diversion to the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion, or LEAD, program.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_86e1398b-1ff3-475e-8c5b-70c37d39b478.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 429DHS raid over childcare center fraud draws spotlight on WA program
(The Center Square) – Recent raids by the Department of Homeland Security in Minnesota over allegations of mass childcare center fraud has inspired scrutiny over similar licensed businesses in Washington state, while the state Department of Children, Youth & Family Services is encouraging individuals to report suspected fraud to a 24/7 hotline.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_0b9f7aa8-4d78-4f3b-b815-b6d73b4d9993.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 428Four Western WA counties granted $6.6M in federal funds for road safety programs
(The Center Square) – Selected communities in four Western Washington counties will receive a combined $6.58 million in federal funding for road safety improvements, as new data shows a decline in fatal and serious injury crashes in 2025. U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., announced the federal grant awards to cities and Native tribes in King, Snohomish, Clark and Thurston counties through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All program.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_9df99210-ecc6-413e-9eec-4f28481e104b.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 427Weekend Edition | Seattle Children’s nurses vote to authorize strike as contract talks continue
(The Center Square) – More than 2,100 registered nurses at Seattle Children’s Hospital have authorized a potential strike following a union vote. Registered nurses at Seattle Children’s Hospital voted Sunday and Monday on whether to authorize their bargaining team to call a strike. The Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA), which represents the striking nurses, wrote in a post on Monday that the measure passed by an “overwhelming” margin. “Your vote to authorize a strike gives us more power at the bargaining table,” the union wrote in its post. “We continue to bargain fiercely to reach a complete tentative agreement we can be proud to bring to you for a vote without having to strike.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 426Seattle Children’s nurses vote to authorize strike as contract talks continue
(The Center Square) – More than 2,100 registered nurses at Seattle Children’s Hospital have authorized a potential strike following a union vote. Registered nurses at Seattle Children’s Hospital voted Sunday and Monday on whether to authorize their bargaining team to call a strike. The Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA), which represents the striking nurses, wrote in a post on Monday that the measure passed by an “overwhelming” margin. Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_7529f287-f13a-4c25-88bb-3927d9a3f6d1.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 425Organizer to Seattle: No need to wait for final fed policy on homelessness
(The Center Square) - Even though the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has temporarily withdrawn its recently announced policy changes that threaten deep cuts to "Housing First" programs, the founder of a Seattle-based community group is confident the changes are coming. Andrea Suarez, who founded We Heart Seattle more than five years ago, said there’s “no need to wait” for federal action before the city alters its approach.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxxRead more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_7fab62c3-3e16-437d-827e-1e7d4ca67666.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 424Weekend Edition | Seattle Mayor-elect Wilson’s staff working to align with ethics laws
(The Center Square) – Seattle Mayor-elect Katie Wilson’s senior staff includes figures from nonprofits and advocacy groups who have played influential roles in shaping city policy, meaning she and her team are navigating potential conflicts with city ethics laws. “This is a team that’s ready to get to work,” said Wilson in announcing her senior staff team earlier this month. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 423Oversight board meets as 2025 closes with record WA child deaths/near deaths
(The Center Square) - Members of the Department of Children Youth and Families Oversight Board met Wednesday to discuss proposed changes to legislation that critics say has led to an alarming increase in the numbers of children who have died in the Washington state welfare system in recent years. The board also discussed and ultimately rejected adding the secretary of DCYF or executive staff to the board as a nonvoting member.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxxRead more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_abd8b714-12ce-4e07-8b50-ed907c2ea44a.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 422Seattle Mayor-elect Wilson’s staff working to align with ethics laws
(The Center Square) – Seattle Mayor-elect Katie Wilson’s senior staff includes figures from nonprofits and advocacy groups who have played influential roles in shaping city policy, meaning she and her team are navigating potential conflicts with city ethics laws. “This is a team that’s ready to get to work,” said Wilson in announcing her senior staff team earlier this month.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_de820ec2-f88c-4b75-bfc0-20907b922a8d.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 420Weekend Edition | As federal probe widens, Gov. Walz tells Seattle crowd he'll welcome more Somalis
(The Center Square) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, under fire for failing to prevent a massive welfare fraud scheme in his state, was in Seattle on Tuesday as the special guest at Gov. Bob Ferguson’s fundraising luncheon, telling those in attendance Somalis were being "demonized" and vowing to bring more into his state. “These folks better not ever mistake our kindness for our weakness because we are going to defend our neighbors. These guys bring out the worst in me. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 421‘Political conflict’ alleged over WA AGO’s involvement in initiative legal battle
(The Center Square) – The Washington State Attorney General’s Office billed more than 11,000 hours of attorney and staff work on lawsuits against the federal government in an eight-month period following the November 2024 election, according to records obtained by The Center Square. More than a third of those hours were spent working on a lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s executive order regarding federal funding for medical providers who perform gender-affirming procedures on children.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxxRead more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_cfeb7b97-74c6-4127-a9ee-97908c7ae6eb.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 418As federal probe widens, Gov. Walz tells Seattle crowd he'll welcome more Somalis
(The Center Square) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, under fire for failing to prevent a massive welfare fraud scheme in his state, was in Seattle on Tuesday as the special guest at Gov. Bob Ferguson’s fundraising luncheon, telling those in attendance Somalis were being "demonized" and vowing to bring more into his state. “These folks better not ever mistake our kindness for our weakness because we are going to defend our neighbors. These guys bring out the worst in me.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_9cccffda-f6cf-4bac-9093-caf1ac57d27a.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 417Tacoma to consider public safety sales tax to avoid 911 cuts, address budget gap
(The Center Square) – The Tacoma City Council will hold its first reading this week on a proposed 0.1% public safety sales tax – months later than several neighboring cities that have already adopted similar increases. The sales tax increase – authorized by the state Legislature via House Bill 2015, with generated revenue only allowed to go toward public safety needs – would raise Tacoma’s sales tax rate from 10.3% to 10.4% and generate an estimated $7 million to $7.5 million annually, according to the city.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_542f6169-f93e-42c1-a81f-a255a59c3284.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 416Weekend Edition | Democratic socialist lawmaker introduces statewide payroll tax
(The Center Square) – Rep. Shaun Scott, D-Seattle, on Tuesday held a press conference to announce legislation for a new payroll excise tax on high-income earners, aimed at “protecting Washington’s budget and public services from the severe impacts of H.R. 1, the federal tax package recently passed by Congressional Republicans and Donald Trump,” according to Scott’s press release. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.