Bob Ferguson

Even as they cut funding for other early education and childcare programs, state lawmakers expanded the state’s free preschool program during the recent legislative session.

The state will require large AI developers to provide tools for people to detect if content was AI-generated. Another law focused on suicide prevention for minors using chatbots.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest loans to Washingtonians who need help repairing their homes and businesses after major flooding in December.

The Washington Legislature wrapped up the 2026 session last week. Updates to the budget included cuts to childcare subsidies and a one-time pull from the state's rainy day fund.

Lawmakers avoided a multi-million dollar cut to state funding that helps programs such as rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters and legal aid.

Democrats and Republicans argued over whether spending and taxing plans will make Washington more affordable. Lawmakers will have to wrangle with a forecast deficit next year.

It would be the state's first-ever income tax. The Senate's final approval came after a historic 25-hour debate in the House.

In a 51 to 46 vote with four Democrats dissenting, the bill now has a clear path to the governor’s desk. If signed into law, it would become the first income tax for the state of Washington.

Supporters say joint cap-and-trade auctions will help stabilize prices and drive down costs for businesses.

Gov. Ferguson had previously wavered on his support in the bill’s earlier form, saying the legislation did not include enough to support working families as written.