The IMPACT

This award-winning news program with host Mike McClanahan provides an up-close look at how government decisions in Olympia impact your daily life.

State Commissioner of Public Lands candidates Jaime Herrera Beutler and Dave Upthegrove.

This week we look at the debate over I-2124, the initiative to allow anyone to opt-out of the state's mandatory long-term care insurance program, WA Cares. Guests: I-2124 supporter Rep. Chris Corry and I-2124 opponent Rep. Nicole Macri.

Filing consumer protection lawsuits, defending state laws, and writing legal opinions for state officials or local prosecutors are a few of the duties of the Washington Attorney General. 2024 AG candidates Nick Brown and Pete Serrano joined host Mike McClanahan on The Impact for a panel interview covering a range of topics including their priorities and signature issues.

Chris Reykdal and David Olson are candidates vying for the leadership of Washington's public school systems, with a combined focus on education reform and student advocacy. They delve into urgent topics like revamping public education funding, emphasizing mental health resources and the challenges of school privatization. The discussion reveals concerning student testing scores and calls for accountability in educational leadership, all while promoting skilled trades as valuable career pathways. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of education!

An overview of the state's new cold case unit devoted to cases involving missing or murdered indigenous people. Then a look at a unique job opportunity for young adults to work on environmental projects. Guests: Chief Investigator Brian George, MMIWP Cold Case Unit and Rebecca Benjamin, Director of the Washington Conservation Corps

A look at what's new for Washington State Parks this summer, perennial favorite destinations, and tips for planning the best visit possible. We'll also highlight the work of the state agency which funds outdoor recreation projects of all sizes and a program to help disadvantaged kids experience the best of the outdoors in Washington.

A dispute over the water rights controlled by a soon to be shuttered power plant highlight the competing needs of at-risk fish and growing communities. Interviews: Centralia Public Works Manager Kim Ashmore and Earthjustice Attorney Janette Brimmer.

An overview of 2023 highway fatality trends with Washington Traffic Safety Commission Director Shelly Baldwin. Plus, a look at new legislation that expands the authority of local governments to use ticketing cameras to regulate intersections and enforce speed limits.

Ten years after the first charter school in Washington opened its doors in Seattle, a look at the tumultuous early steps and the most recent report card for charters. Guest: Jessica de Barros, Executive Director of the Washington Charter School Commission