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Washington state celebrates Veterans Day

The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs 2022 Veterans Day poster.

Friday, Nov. 3, is Veterans Day and the 104^th anniversary of Armistice Day concluding World War I. The United States Congress officially recognized the holiday in June 1926, proclaiming, “It is fitting that the recurring anniversary of this date should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace.”

Cities and towns across Washington state celebrate the holiday with parades and events to honor veterans. The City of Auburn hosted its annual Veterans Day Parade with 6,000 participants. The West Richland Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual parade, drawing 3,000 participants. The Tacoma Historical Society hosted its annual Veterans Day Celebration at War Memorial Park. Many more events are scheduled statewide.

“No matter how or where you celebrate the holiday, I hope you join me in taking a moment to honor our nation’s veterans and the many thousands of Washingtonians who served,” said Gov. Jay Inslee. “And to those veterans: thank you. Thank you for your patriotism and sense of duty. It’s your day.”

Two veterans from the Edward B. Rhodes Parkland Post 2 observe the Tacoma Historical Society's 16th annual Veterans Day Celebration on Friday morning at War Memorial Park in Tacoma.

Efficient electric heat pumps become the state standard

New homes and apartment buildings built in Washington state must be equipped with electric heat pumps beginning in July. The state Building Code Council voted in favor of the requirement this week. The switch will reduce carbon emissions and reliance on nonrenewable heat sources. Natural gas is pollutive, contributing to health issues in gas-burning homes and creating greenhouse gases that accelerate global warming.

Electric heat pumps are efficient, and many units can both heat and cool living spaces. Washington state enjoys some of America’s cheapest electricity; Seattle rates are 29% below the national average. In addition to low monthly costs, electric heat pumps often require minimal maintenance. Electric heat is also safer than gas heat – gas furnaces in disrepair can produce lethal, odorless carbon monoxide.

“Electric heat is the way to go. Here in Washington state, we have a clean and reliable grid, and some of the cheapest power in the country,” said Gov. Jay Inslee. “New housing units will benefit from safe, efficient heating and I’m sure tenants will enjoy low monthly bills.”

State health care exchange begins open enrollment, offers new subsidies

Lower health care premiums are calling – WA Healthplanfinder open enrollment has begun, and Washingtonians are invited to select from a variety of low-cost health insurance plans.

The Washington Healthplanfinder open enrollment period began Nov. 1, allowing Washingtonians to select among low-cost health plans to insure themselves and their loved ones. Many low-income individuals and families may purchase health coverage for less than $10 per month thanks to new state subsidies.

More than 40% of Washingtonians who purchase insurance through WA Healthplanfinder are eligible for the new Cascade Care Savings program, available to individuals and families making 250% or less of the federal poverty level. Individuals making $32,000 or less, or families of four making $66,250 or less, are likely eligible.

“I do not believe health care is a privilege in the 21st Century – health care is a right,” said Inslee. “I was proud to sign the nation’s first public option plan into law, and I’m proud that we’ve advanced our cause since by making health coverage even more attainable for working families.”

The Washington Healthplanfinder open enrollment period concludes Jan. 15, 2023.

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Election results take shape statewide

While local counties and the Secretary of State’s Office continue to verify the final results of the recent general election, many races have been decided. Washingtonians may visit the secretary of state’s website and select their county to review local results. An estimated 2.7 million Washingtonians cast a ballot this election.

Native & Strong suicide prevention lifeline to launch next week

Washington state launched a statewide 9-8-8 crisis line earlier this year, meaning help is now just three digits away for any Washingtonian in crisis. Additional culturally-specific options are now coming online to support at-risk groups.

The Native and Strong Lifeline to launch next Thursday, Nov. 17, is dedicated to American Indian and Alaska Native populations. It is the first such lifeline in the nation. Historical trauma, disproportionate poverty, and other factors contribute to an increased risk of suicide for Native populations. Native and Strong Lifeline operators are all tribal members or descendants, and they receive specialized training to help American Indian and Alaska Native people through crisis.

World leaders gather to discuss climate change at COP27

The United Nations hosts an annual Conference of the Parties (COP), gathering world leaders to address climate change and its consequences. Gov. Jay Inslee will travel to Egypt next week to join COP27 to represent Washington state’s clean energy advances and to marshal subnational efforts to reduce emissions. Inslee has established Washington state as a global leader of climate action, co-founding the U.S. Climate Alliance and international Ocean Acidification Alliance.

Research shows college, financial aid brighten students’ futures

A new report by the Washington Student Achievement Council shows many economically-disadvantaged students who receive financial aid to attend college surpass their parents’ wages within just three years of graduation. Financial aid pays off for Washington students, though many students neglect to apply – as much as $50 million has been left behind in recent years by families that failed to file a FAFSA.

Small businesses in four Washington counties are eligible for disaster assistance loans to overcome drought

Many small businesses in Benton, Columbia, Klickitat and Walla Walla counties may be eligible for disaster assistance loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Businesses dependent on agricultural production were slowed by drought conditions in 2021 and 2022. SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program offers low-interest, long-term loans to help small businesses overcome regional disasters or emergencies. Applications must be submitted by Dec. 8, 2022.