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Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed three bills aimed at enhancing immigrant rights, including measures for inspecting detention facilities, preventing workplace coercion, and restricting bail bond agents from enforcing immigration laws. These laws respond to ongoing federal crackdowns on undocumented immigrants. The legislation takes effect immediately or on July 1 and July 27, respectively.
Washington state maintains $150 million in Medicaid-like coverage for low-income immigrants under its Apple Health Expansion program. However, this could attract federal Medicaid cuts as Republicans in Congress pursue legislation penalizing states with such programs. Local advocates commend the initiative for providing essential health care to marginalized communities.
Cascade High School student Caroline Menna earned the title of 2025 National Merit Scholar, one of only 6,900 students nationwide. She received a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship and expressed gratitude for the support of her family and school. Menna plans to pursue science journalism at Dartmouth College.
Food banks in North Central Washington face record demand as Upper Valley MEND's pantry reports 3,000 visitors in 2025, up from 1,800 last year. Rising food costs and funding cuts from the USDA threaten their ability to provide essential services. Executive Director Kaylin Bettinger emphasizes the need for culturally relevant staples amid increasing expenses.
Brex outlines key aspects of material procurement, emphasizing effective strategies for small businesses. The article highlights the importance of understanding procurement processes to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. It also addresses the benefits of streamlined procurement practices in fostering supplier relationships.
A Spokane man, Ronald Cowin, 62, faces arrest for attempting to pull over vehicles using a car equipped with red and blue lights, mimicking law enforcement. Washington State Patrol apprehended Cowin after he allegedly tried to initiate two traffic stops on May 8, leading to his booking on a charge of second-degree criminal impersonation. The WSP advises motorists to verify the legitimacy of traffic stops to ensure their safety.
Washington State Senator Keith Goehner honored Nutcracker Museum co-founder Arlene Wagner with a Senate resolution on May 9, recognizing her contributions to the arts and culture as she celebrated her 100th birthday. The museum, which Wagner and her husband opened in 1995, now features over 9,000 nutcrackers from around the world. Goehner emphasized the importance of honoring Wagner in her community, where she has shared her extensive knowledge of nutcrackers.
Cascade School District earned recognition as a Green Ribbon School District for its environmental initiatives and educational programs. The Washington State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction selected CSD as the sole district for this honor in 2025. CSD will advance to the national level for consideration by the U.S. Department of Education.
Washington hospitality and food industry groups urge Governor Bob Ferguson to veto a tax bill's surcharge, warning it will increase food prices for consumers. House Bill 2081 includes a temporary 0.5% surcharge on large businesses, expected to generate $1.86 billion, which critics argue unfairly targets food wholesalers. The bill aims to address a projected budget shortfall but faces opposition from affected sectors.
Washington state officials warn residents to prepare for a heightened wildfire risk this summer due to warmer, drier weather. The State Fire Marshal’s Office reported a $23 million cost for wildfire responses in 2024, underscoring the urgent need for wildfire prevention measures.