Thousands near Seattle and Tacoma live within reach of volcanic hazards
More than 90,000 people live inside mapped lahar hazard zones around Mount Rainier, while over 50,000 employees work in businesses located within those areas. The volcano is not showing signs of an imminent eruption. Its current alert level remains normal, meaning scientists are observing ordinary background activity rather than evidence
Social Security reform gets an uncommon approach in Washington
Social Security reform usually involves politically difficult choices such as raising payroll taxes, reducing future benefits, or increasing the retirement age. Senators Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Tim Kaine of Virginia have promoted a less conventional idea. Their proposal would borrow about $1.5 trillion, invest it in a professionally managed
The impact of Washington’s new income tax is catching many off guard
Washington’s newly approved income tax marks a major change for a state that has long promoted itself as having no personal income tax. Gov. Bob Ferguson signed Senate Bill 6346 into law on March 30, 2026. It creates a 9.9% tax on annual Washington taxable income above $1 million, beginning




