The IMPACT

An election focused panel discussion covering the contests to watch, the implications of redistricting, a wave of retirements, and a slate of ballot initiatives. Guests: Paul Queary, The Washington Observer and Jerry Cornfield, the Washington State Standard

A one-on-one sit down with Assistant Secretary Steve Nevey, the new head of Washington State Ferries, about his plans for the nation's largest ferry fleet and a system struggling with limited staff, mechanical problems, and construction delays for new ferries.

A detailed look at the forest wrecking caterpillars behind an emergency eradication campaign. Then a broad overview of efforts to stop invasive threats of all shapes and sizes, from plants that can cause serious sunburns to mussels that create a razor sharp blanket of shells. Q&A with Sven Spichiger, Pest Program Manager, Plant Protection Division, Washington State Department of Agriculture & Stephanie Helms, Executive Coordinator for the Washington State Invasive Species Council.

Why hospitals are hemorrhaging money, the Medicaid/long-term care conundrum, the consolidation debate, and the implications for healthcare delivery in Washington. Guest: Cassie Sauer, President and CEO of the Washington State Hospital Association

Are gray wolves heading to your neck of the woods? We dig into the latest numbers and dispersal trends for Washington's growing gray wolf population. Plus, a look at the federal government's plan to reintroduce grizzly bears to the North Cascades. Guest: Julie Smith, WDFW Endangered Species Recovery Section Manager

Inflation and job market trends in 2024. Q&A with Chief Labor Economist for the Employment Security Department, Anneliese Vance-Sherman.

What toxic chemicals are hiding in your household products? What about your car? A look at the state's efforts to reduce or eliminate high concern chemicals in consumer goods and the Safer Products for Washington Program. Guest: Marissa Smith, Senior Regulatory Toxicologist, Washington State Department of Ecology.

2024 wildfire season preview with Matt Dehr, Lead Meteorologist for the Washington Department of Natural Resources.

The debate over new standards to overhaul public defense and slash maximum caseloads for defenders. Guests: Larry Jefferson, Director of the Washington State Office of Public Defense and Eric Johnson, Executive Director of the Washington State Association of Counties.

A one-on-one interview with State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti covering new retirement savings legislation, the push for mandatory financial education in public schools, cannabis banking restrictions and more.