Emma Schwichtenberg

The WA Senate has passed a bill to extend unemployment insurance (UI) benefits to workers during strikes. Striking workers who logged at least 680 hours in the past year would be eligible & if approved would receive an average of $757 for up to four weeks. cascadepbs.org/politics/2025…

A bill going through the Washington Legislature aims to address this by expanding insurance coverage for prosthetic limbs and custom orthotic braces, ensuring patients have access to medically necessary devices for daily activities and physical mobility. cascadepbs.org/politics/2025…

The strands of bull kelp that wash up along Washington shores are a reminder of vibrant underwater forests below. HB 1631 would make bull kelp forests as the official state marine forest, recognizing their role in the state’s ecology, culture & economy. cascadepbs.org/politics/2025…

Women age 18-24 who are college students are 3x more likely to experience sexual violence than women across all ages, while women 18-24 not in college face higher risks. Advocates are pushing a new WA bill to improve protections for student survivors. cascadepbs.org/politics/2025…

Senate Bill 5007 is moving through Olympia to support students who are chronically absent and at risk of not graduating from high school. Chronic absenteeism, defined as missing 10% or more of the school year, has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. cascadepbs.org/politics/2025…

Senate Bill 5130 aims to eliminate licensing fees for child care providers to help reduce business costs & expand access for families. The fees, though, currently generate about $2M annually for the state & removing would require replacement funding. cascadepbs.org/politics/2025…

In Washington, the nickname “The Evergreen State” winks at you from road signs, license plates, even quarters. It’s a popular title, but it’s never been made official. Senate Bill 5000 would make the arrangement formal. cascadepbs.org/politics/2025…