The IMPACT

A look at the campaign to put drug decriminalization on the ballot this year and the implications of the new strain of bird flu detected in Washington.Guests: Sal Mungia, I-1922 Campaign Steering Committee; Dr. Amber Itle, State Veterinarian, WSDA

Why farmers are worried about the spread of colorful little beetles. The 2022 plan of attack for invasive giant hornets. Guests include Sven Spichiger, WSDA Entomologist.

Pensions, retirement, and inflation insight from the state Dept. of Retirement Systems’ Seth Miller. Plus, WA college affordability and enrollment initiatives with Michael Meotti, Exec. Director, WA Student Achievement Council.

The urban-rural digital divide in Washington. Broadband internet expansion needs, goals, and strategies. Guests include Mark Vasconi, Director of the Washington State Broadband Office.

A look at new legislation to overcome language barriers for ESL families in public schools. The new push for retail career path training and education.

Debating the high cost of housing and legislative strategies to address it. Guests: Senate Housing & Local Government Committee Chair, Sen. Patty Kuderer (D-Bellevue) and Ranking Member, Sen. Phil Fortunato (R-Auburn).

A one-on-one exit interview with the state's longest-serving legislator, Sen. Tim Sheldon (D-Potlatch), who has announced he won't run for reelection.

A Senate leadership panel interview reviewing the 2022 Legislative Session. Guests include Sen. Rebecca Saldaña (D-Seattle) and Sen. Shelly Short (R-Addy).

House leaders reflect on the 2022 legislative session. One-on-one interviews with House Speaker Laurie Jinkins (D-Tacoma) and House Republican Leader J.T. Wilcox (R-Yelm).

A look at how small flood protection projects performed during the big January floods. The pandemic's role in expanding access to cameras in the courtroom. Guests include Andrea McNamara Doyle, Director of the Office of Chehalis Basin and attorney Robert Mitchell.