Seven years ago, in the landmark case known as McCleary, justices ruled the state had complied with the court’s order to ensure ample funding for basic education. But the state’s been backsliding since, Reykdal said, and no longer provides enough money to local school districts to keep pace with rising costs.

Republicans liked a lot of what they heard. They delivered more standing ovations than Democrats. Many Democrats didn’t hide their pique with Ferguson’s reform-minded message, which comes as the party has controlled the governor’s office and the Legislature for more than seven years. 

Governor-elect Bob Ferguson recently announced the appointment to lead the agency, which manages a budget of $7.9 billion and administers more than 100 programs in the areas of housing, energy, community and economic development, local government and business services.

A state-run housing program that has failed to deliver on its promise of providing longtime tenants a chance to buy their homes recently came under fire from Washington lawmakers.

The Building Code Council says it is making a “good faith effort” to comply. Supporters say some rules can’t be enforced when the measure takes effect in December.

Washington’s minimum wage will climb to $16.66 an hour next year, a 38-cent-an-hour increase.

A pair of new reports outline financial consequences if voters approve ballot measures this fall repealing Washington’s capital gains tax and scrapping its cap-and-trade program.

State election officials have certified an initiative for the November ballot that seeks to reverse Washington’s controversial tactics to phase out natural gas use in homes and other buildings.

Customers can get a rebate of up to $9,000 for leasing or purchasing a new or used electric vehicle. High cost is one reason given for consumers to pass on buying an EV.