The IMPACT

An overview of issues likely to surface during the 2024 Legislative Session. Featuring analysis with Paul Queary, founder of the independent political newsletter, The Washington Observer.

State authorities have reportedly cleared the long-running backlog of untested sexual assault evidence kits. A look at the implications for survivors and suspects. Guest: Chris Loftis, Washington State Patrol.

From convenience and speed, to security and privacy, we explore the potential pros and cons of a requested rule change to allow biometric forms of ID that rely on fingerprints or other physical characteristics for alcohol and cannabis purchases. Guest: Justin Nordhorn, Director of Policy and External Affairs for the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board.

Can beekeepers breathe easy or are humongous hornets here to stay? An update on the multi-year effort to eradicate the invasive Northern Giant Hornet in Washington. Then a look at how Washington's experience may help other states with a different invasive hornet. Guest: Sven Spichiger, Washington State Department of Agriculture.

A look at how the legalization of sports betting has impacted the entertainment sector and sports coverage. From player intimidation to inside information, we explore emerging issues for regulators, then highlight resources for problem gambling. Guest: Tina Griffin, Director of the Washington State Gambling Commission

An update on the effort to remove the dam that created Capitol Lake and restore the Deschutes estuary in downtown Olympia. Featuring input from different stakeholders and a one-on-one interview with the new project lead for the Department of Enterprise Services, Ann Larson.

This podcast discusses the risks of seismically vulnerable school buildings in Washington state. It covers the need for assessment and mitigation, the state's preparedness compared to neighboring regions, challenges in funding school construction, risks of relying on capital gains tax, and the importance of making school buildings seismically safe.

From potholes to public records, cap-and-trade to capital gains: a press corps panel looks back on the big state government stories of 2023 and issues to watch in 2024. Featuring Jerry Cornfield of the Washington State Standard and Shauna Sowersby of McClatchy Newspapers (Tacoma News-Tribune, The Olympian, Bellingham Herald, Tri-City Herald).

Research sheds light on a new high-risk earthquake scenario for the Seattle metropolitan area. State emergency management agency highlights annual earthquake preparedness drill.

Part two of our series on Washington's sweeping new carbon pricing policies. This episode covers plans to target air pollution in specific communities and outlines some of the unresolved questions facing regulators, utilities, and taxpayers.