Senate Democrats in Washington are advocating for new taxes to address a looming $16 billion budget shortfall, as revealed in a leaked email sent by Sen. Noel Frame (D-Seattle). The email, sent shortly after Governor Jay Inslee’s announcement of the shortfall, outlines additional taxes beyond those proposed by Inslee, which include a new wealth tax, a temporary 20% business surcharge, and an increase in business and occupation (B&O) tax rates.
Seattle's City Council will begin the new year by seeking a replacement for the District 2 position, following the resignation of Councilmember Tammy Morales. Morales, who represents neighborhoods like Rainier Beach, Beacon Hill, Columbia City, and the Chinatown/International District, announced that she would step down next month, citing mental health concerns. She stated that the pressures of her role had negatively impacted both her mental and physical well-being.
Starbucks workers in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle launched a five-day strike on Friday, expressing dissatisfaction with the company’s actions regarding collective bargaining and labor negotiations.
A 29-year-old illegal migrant with a history of violent felonies, Ivan Lopez-Ramos of Mexico, has been arraigned on felony charges in Seattle for unlawfully re-entering the United States after being deported in 2022. Lopez-Ramos, a registered sex offender, pleaded not guilty on Thursday in the United States District Court of Western Washington.
Alaska Airlines experienced a significant technology issue on Monday, temporarily grounding flights at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and causing disruptions for passengers throughout the day.
