The IMPACT

An in-depth look at the proposed road usage charge to tax drivers by the mile, pitched as an eventual fuel tax replacement. Interviews with bill sponsor and Democratic House Transportation Committee Chair, Rep. Jake Fey and Ranking Republican Member on the Senate Transportation Committee, Sen. Curtis King.

Mark McKechnie of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission and Anthony Anton of the Washington Hospitality Association weigh in on a bill to lower the legal blood alcohol limit for drunk driving to .05% in Washington.

A discussion of HB 1380, a proposed state law that would hold cities and counties to a new standard when enforcing anti-encampment ordinances. Featuring interviews with bill sponsor, Rep. Mia Gregerson (D-SeaTac) and bill opponent Rep. Cyndy Jacobsen (R-Puyallup).

David Cottrell, a third-generation cranberry farmer and drainage ditch commissioner, shares his journey in combating the alarming erosion of Washaway Beach. He discusses how this small coastal community transformed its dire situation through grassroots efforts and innovative techniques like dynamic revetment. Personal stories illustrate the emotional impact on residents facing home loss. Cottrell emphasizes the importance of collaborative restoration efforts, showcasing how their success could inspire similar initiatives worldwide.

A deeper dive into the debate over logging pre-WWII stands of trees on state trust lands —sometimes called Legacy Forests— and the implications for trust beneficiaries and the environment. Guests: Rachel Baker, Washington Conservation Action and Paul Jewell, Washington State Association of Counties

A look at the debate over rent stabilization and an overview of legislation that would limit rent increases to 7% per year. Segment includes a panel discussion with Chester Baldwin representing the Rental Housing Association of Washington and Kraig Peck, a rental property investor based in Bothell.

From logging to habitat conservation, revenue, and wildfire — state forests are under new management. Hear what Lands Commissioner Dave Upthegrove has in store for DNR this week on The Impact.

Impact host Mike McClanahan sits down with OSPI Chris Reykdal to talk about his legislative agenda and a range of K-12 topics, from school funding to student achievement and the office of OSPI itself. We also highlight Governor Bob Ferguson's first three executive orders.

Part 2 of The Impact's business and labor series covers union headlines from 2024 and labor priorities for the 2025 Legislative Session. Guests: April Sims, President of the Washington State Labor Council and Danielle Alvarado, Executive Director of Working Washington.

A look at the key issues facing Washington business leaders heading into 2025.