As the 2026 legislative session gets underway, state lawmakers face competing demands and limited resources
With the 2026 legislative session approaching, Washington lawmakers will be asked to make decisions that shape state finances, economic conditions, and government priorities. From taxes and spending to broader budget concerns, residents often have differing views on what deserves the most attention. This week’s poll asks which issue should rise to the top as legislators begin their work.
- Opinion: Why lawmakers are going after your pension
Ryan Frost argues lawmakers included public pensions in the income tax law in preparation for lowering the $1 million deduction. - Opinion: Washington has an income tax – why won’t the media call it one?
Cargill argues the media is using supporters’ preferred label “millionaires tax” instead of the legally accurate term “income tax.” - POLL: How do you think higher impact fees for school districts affect housing affordability in Clark County?
Clark County Council raised impact fees for La Center, Hockinson, and Woodland school districts, drawing pushback from the Building Industry Association. - Opinion: Impaired walking vs. impaired driving; pick neither
Doug Dahl argues impaired driving remains deadlier than walking impaired when measured by exposure time, not miles traveled. - Opinion: When the same money helps fund the program and the story
Peter Bracchi examines how the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund supports Vancouver’s HART program, the Bridge Shelter, and Community Funded Journalism covering the same policy arena.
