 |
Today marks an important tradition in our nation’s history—the peaceful transfer of power.
|
|
On this Inauguration Day…
|
|
|
We hope our Shift WA readers are taking a moment to reflect on this remarkable cornerstone of our democracy and feel inspired by it. As a new chapter begins, we wish the Trump Administration every success in strengthening our country and bringing prosperity to all Americans.
|
|
|
|
Washington’s Ag Decline: Olympia’s Rules Are Sowing the Seeds of Failure
|
|
|
A recent op-ed points out how, despite Washington’s perfect climate for diverse crops, staple crops like asparagus, strawberries, and barley are vanishing. The culprits are sky-high costs and Olympia’s relentless regulatory and tax burdens, driving food processors to pack up and leave. When they go, they bulldoze their facilities to avoid helping competitors, leaving farmers like Gordon scrambling to figure out what to plant next. Recent closures, like Vancouver’s Great Western Malting mill, show the trend isn’t slowing down—it’s accelerating. Olympia’s 2021 Climate Commitment Act, with its carbon taxes, is another nail in the coffin, making it easier for companies to flee than to innovate. Gordon’s pitch? Regulators should encourage investment, not exile, because losing crops, infrastructure, and local food production is a lose-lose—for Washington and the planet. Read more at Center Square.
|
|
|
|
Recycling Reform or Just Another Tax? Democrats Double Down on Costly Mandates
|
|
Washington Democrats are at it again, pushing another costly mandate under the guise of saving the planet. Rep. Liz Berry’s new recycling bill demands companies pay into a statewide organization to fund recycling programs and penalizes those who don’t comply. Republicans, led by Rep. Mary Dye, aren’t buying it, pointing out the plan will drive up costs for consumers already struggling with inflation. Dye argues the state should target underperforming counties instead of slapping more fees on businesses and families. Meanwhile, Democrats claim this “streamlined” proposal will fix recycling statewide, but they conveniently ignore the burdens it places on manufacturers and taxpayers. Berry’s “pay-to-play” model forces companies to fund education campaigns and join government-controlled programs—or else stop selling in Washington by 2029. Republicans offer a saner alternative: improving transparency, setting
realistic standards, and avoiding price hikes during an affordability crisis. But, as usual, Democrats seem more interested in their pet projects than practical solutions. Read more at the Washington State Standard.
|
|
|
|
Finally, a Class You’ll Actually Use After Graduation
|
|
|
Washington lawmakers are taking another shot at making financial literacy a high school graduation requirement, and honestly, it’s about time. HB 1285, sponsored by Rep. Skyler Rude, aims to teach students practical skills like budgeting and understanding loan interest—basic knowledge everyone needs but too many adults still lack. The bill dropped its previous half-credit mandate after schools complained about squeezing it into schedules, now leaving districts free to integrate it into existing classes or programs. With support from credit unions and the state treasurer, plus a focus on flexibility, there’s no good excuse for this not to pass. In a world full of unnecessary electives, a course on not going broke seems like a no-brainer. Read more at Center Square.
|
|
|
|
Seattle’s New Chief: Failed Polygraph, Passed Spin Test?
|
|
|
Seattle’s newly appointed police chief, Shon Barnes, reportedly failed SPD’s polygraph test during pre-employment screening, though the city insists there were “no adverse findings.” Mayor Harrell’s office claims the polygraph isn’t a traditional pass/fail test (how convenient) and continues to back Barnes despite swirling rumors and his colorful past. AS KTTH’s Jason Rantz reports, allegations include creating a hostile work environment, mishandling a wrongful raid, and failing to disclose conflicts of interest in reports. The secretive hiring process has raised eyebrows among SPD officers already skeptical of lowered hiring standards amidst ongoing recruitment struggles. Optics aside, it seems Seattle’s leadership is banking on Barnes to bring “accountability”—irony not included. Read more at KTTH.
|
|
|
|
Subscribe to Our Podcast Today!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Please consider making a contribution to ensure Shift continues to provide daily updates on the shenanigans of the liberal establishment. If you’d rather mail a check, you can send it to: Shift WA | PO Box 956 | Cle Elum, WA 98922
Forward this to a friend. It helps us grow our community and serve you better.
You can also follow SHIFTWA on social media by liking us on Facebook and following us on Twitter.
If you feel we missed something that should be covered, email us at [email protected].
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shift Washington | PO Box 956 | Cle Elum, WA 98922 |
|
|
|
|
|
