SPR News Today: Staging a show to reduce the sensory triggers

As fires start blowing smoke, one WA senator wants more transparent home insurance

A new WA law meant to protect immigrant workers takes effect Thursday. Testimony continues in the trial over ID's strict abortion ban. Voters will weigh whether to renew STA's 0.2% sales tax this August. And Spokane is taking new steps to make streets more pedestrian friendly.

Some asylum seekers choose fear in home country over fear in US

Plus, trans Idahoans hope to halt new bathroom law in federal court. The trial in a case challenging ID's strict abortion ban begins today. Gov. Ferguson's office warns WA agencies of another dire budget year. ID state superintendent says funding formula needs to change. Spokane Public Schools may change start times next fall. And Spokane considers cracking down on street racing.

Clean energy projects face red tape in WA. So advocates went to TX to learn how to speed up growth.

Plus, wildfires are starting less often in the western U.S.—but they burn more land when they do, new research shows. WA-based institute brings dozens of collaborators together to find answers about degenerative brain diseases. National homeless rates are dropping, but numbers in OR and north ID saw increases in 2025. ID lawmakers approve ballot language for two constitutional amendments: Making marijuana legalization only a legislative power and making English the state's official language. Spokane’s police chief is worried his department doesn’t have enough female officers. And Seattle hotel workers consider striking for more protection from immigration enforcement ahead of World Cup.

Public defenders want WA to restrict cash bail. But which branch of government has that power?

Plus, health officials investigate infections linked with raw milk from north ID dairy. Spokane launches a tool to help renters stay housed after requiring landlords to connect tenants with resources before evicting them for not paying. A donation lowers barriers to UW Medical School for future physicians aiming to serve Native and rural communities. US House committee approves amended spending plan to retain Chemical Safety Board budget as it investigates Longview implosion. Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners taps current COO as next leader. And a one-night-only art exhibit in Spokane blends queerness, spirituality and folk art.

How do WA renters and landlords feel 1 year into limited rent hikes? Depends on whom you ask.

Plus, private businesses prepare for ID's criminal transgender bathroom ban. WA health and transit officials work together to make healthy food more accessible. SPS's new bus system is just around the corner. And WA's youth drug use prevention efforts might be going better than adults realize.