Wash. lawmakers working on pieces of budget fix

OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Senate has approved a measure that directs agencies to trim about $50 million in payroll costs through furloughs and other steps, as lawmakers continued Tuesday to work toward patching together a budget agreement.

WA Senate OKs data center tax exemption

OLYMPIA, Wash. — The state Senate has approved a temporary tax exemption for companies that want to build server farms in Washington.

Wash. House approves bonds for school upgrades

OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington House is endorsing a plan to upgrade energy efficiency at schools around the state.

Smith, Baird undecided on health care vote

WASHINGTON - With a climactic vote on health care legislation expected in the House of Representatives late this week, two Democratic members from Washington state - Adam Smith and Brian Baird - remain undecided on how to vote.

Budget battle tough to solve in overtime

State lawmakers returned to the state capitol on Monday to start an overtime session needed to balance a $2.8 billion budget deficit.

Focus turns to jobs creation

Higher taxes. Slashed programs. Whatever the Legislature's majority Democrats do to fix the budget shortfall in the special session starting today, it will be memorable to voters.

Bill would let lights shine a bit 'greener'

OLYMPIA - The ability of residents to recycle their used fluorescent bulbs and tubes might get easier.