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

Besides a new jail, how can Spokane tackle public safety challenges? This group has thoughts

Plus, more than 200 new WA laws take effect today. ID sets new restrictions to prevent New World screwworm infestations. Fans watch Egypt's national team practice in Spokane. Lumen Field prepares to host its first World Cup game. And ID officials squabble over America250 spending.

How the Egyptian World Cup team ended up in Spokane

Plus, WA faces more cuts this budget season, but the state superintendent continues to say education can't take any more hits. Spokane County hasn't installed a public safety sales tax yet, but it's taking steps to make sure it can be an option in the future. Gov. Ferguson joins the call to ban phones in public schools statewide. Former Spokane health officer Bob Lutz settles with health district for $1.65 million. And what's Spokane's 'queer agenda'? Spectrum Center wants input from the Inland Northwest's LGBTQ+ community.

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.