As the Trump administration works to shrink the federal government, budget cuts could mean the end of a program focused on Washington’s coastal zone.

Washington Sea Grant funds programs to help communities manage their fisheries and coastlines.

KUOW’s John Ryan reports.

Deep cuts to federal spending on oceans could land on the Washington coast.

Washington lawmakers could open the door to higher property taxes in the state. Olympia correspondent Jeanie Lindsay reports, a proposal working through the Legislature is facing growing pushback from critics.

After hour lounges in Seattle will likely have until June 1st to submit a plan on implementing new safety measures. [KUOW C&C]

It’s been two years since Multnomah County’s public housing authority Home Forward opened up its waitlist for people seeking federal rental assistance. As Alex Zielinski reports, they’re accepting applications again.

[WRAP: ‘Forever chemicals’ in Kennewick’s drinking water for the second year in a row 041525CF_KennewickPFAs_CC.wav wrap 0:44 4/15/25 Courtney Flatt/JD]

For the second spring in a row, Kennewick has found “forever chemicals” in its drinking water. Those levels of chemicals are above Washington state’s standards. [N-W-P-B’s senior environmental correspondent Courtney Flatt has more.] [SOQ 0:44]

[C&C: ‘Forever chemicals’ in Kennewick’s drinking water for the second year in a row 041525CF_KennewickPFAs_CC.wav c&c 0:09 4/15/25 Courtney Flatt/JD]

Recent tests found levels of “forever chemicals” in the city of Kennewick’s drinking water system. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or mixing formula with tap water, the city is warning you to not drink the water.

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ERT: 58

Lane County Commissioners are considering a proposal to increase building fees by about 7% a year for three years in hopes of closing a deficit.

Washington Democrats want to let local governments collect more money from property taxes. Olympia correspondent Jeanie Lindsay explains, the proposals could mean higher property tax bills – but not as much as some critics say.

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Lane County will soon decide whether to increase building fees by about 21 percent over the next three years.

KLCC’s Rebecca Hansen-White explains.

SOQ… 46