A CEO Message on the August 4 Washington primary: Why the results signal a Republican party that has lost voters' confidence, and a rejection of the extremes in both parties rather than a leftward turn. Continue Reading
Bellevue Chamber CEO Joe Fain on what Seattle's World Cup summer taught him about hope, pride, and joy, and why fighting cynicism, not just bad ideas, is the region's next great civic project. Continue Reading
Every year, the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce asks a simple question: what are Bellevue voters actually thinking? Answering it well takes a rigorous instrument, a consistent method held steady over time, and the patience to listen even when the answers are complicated. Continue Reading
Every few weeks a new economic ranking shows Washington at the head of the pack, or scraping bottom. Here's the analysis and the tool to help explain the contradiction. Continue Reading
Washington's exempt salary threshold hits $80,168 in 2026 and climbs toward $93,000 by 2028, by far the highest in the nation. What employers need to know about the three-part test, the multi-state comparison, and the steps to take now to stay compliant and competitive. Continue Reading
Joe Fain breaks down the March 2026 UI Trust Fund Forecast: Washington's average employer UI tax rate is projected to jump 37% over three years. The driver isn't rising unemployment but a solvency surcharge and changing claimant behavior, and the assumptions may not be conservative enough. Continue Reading
Washington's March collections missed forecast by $71.2M, the two-month shortfall is now $113.8M, and lawmakers left just a $231M ending balance. CEO Joe Fain on why this isn't austerity, why even healthy revenue growth won't save a budget built on aggressive assumptions, and what comes next. Continue Reading
Washington’s income tax is likely to become law. But the math behind the proposal raises serious questions. The state’s budget challenges are driven by spending growth, not a lack of revenue—and the policy choices that follow will shape Washington’s economic future. Continue Reading
Washington State has one of the richest histories in the nation when it comes to passing an income tax. Continue Reading
Washington's latest attempt to impose a statewide income tax is moving fast. Find out what's in the bill and what comes next with our FAQ. Continue Reading
Despite low turnout, tonight's election is a big one across Western Washington. Here at 10 tight races to watch as the returns roll in. Continue Reading
Heads up: As of 12:00 AM this morning, Washington launched a tax blitzkrieg on services, businesses, and your streaming habit. Continue Reading
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