 Thank you for subscribing to e-news updates from the Office of Gov. Jay Inslee. We hope you find these updates interesting, useful and worth sharing. If you’d like to update your subscription preferences or unsubscribe, you can do so here at any time.
“In traveling the state, I’m often introduced to Washingtonians who make it their mission to help their neighbors. I’m grateful to be governor of a state full of people like that. I think our compassion competes with our mountains, fields and coasts to be the most beautiful thing about Washington. So this Thanksgiving, Trudi and I are thankful for the places and people that make Washington such a beautiful place to call home.” - Gov. Jay Inslee
 Gov. Jay Inslee, lawmakers, justice system leaders and employees convened on Monday to announce plans for a new DCYF-run juvenile rehabilitation facility in Aberdeen intended to reduce overcrowding at the Green Hill School in Chehalis.
Washington state’s juvenile rehabilitation (JR) system has been noted in recent years for its innovative, trauma-informed education and therapeutic programming. But 2024 has brought significant challenges. The state’s JR population is increasing, including a 60% increase in young people at Green Hill School in Chehalis since 2023. The resulting overcrowding at certain facilities has created unsafe conditions and reduced the ability for young men to receive services.
Gov. Jay Inslee and leaders from the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families previewed a proposal on Monday they’ll send to legislators in January to address the short- and long-term challenges facing JR, including urgently reducing overcrowding at Green Hill School. Inslee also announced he is directing DCYF to immediately begin preparations for a new facility in Aberdeen that can serve 48 young men and emerging adults.
Read the full story on Gov. Jay Inslee's Medium
Last week’s ‘bomb cyclone’ caused damage and power outages across western Washington. Washington’s Emergency Management Department is working with local governments to assess whether that damage meets the threshold for Federal Emergency Management Agency funding.
“The complexity and scale of this storm is unlike anything we’ve experienced in recent times,” said Gov. Jay Inslee. “It has left thousands of families and business owners in difficult, and sometimes life-threatening, situations. Trudi and I are absolutely grateful for the skilled crews who have been working day and night to restore power for everyone as quickly as possible. I also appreciate the work of the Department of Transportation, State Patrol and other agencies who were part of the response. Our EMD remains in close contact with local governments to make sure they have the resources they need. We are now coordinating efforts to determine if we’ll qualify for federal disaster aid.”
King County is asking affected homeowners to report storm damage, and is offering some property tax relief and debris pickup. Snohomish County will publish guidance for affected homeowners next week.
SNAP recipients may file a claim to replace spoiled food. People whose work hours are temporarily reduced due to the storm may be eligible for unemployment. The Office of the Insurance Commissioner offers advice for homeowners about filing insurance claims. The state Department of Labor & Industries urges homeowners to hire only contractors registered with the state, verified by visiting ProtectMyHome.net or calling L&I weekdays at 1-800-647-0982 and pressing 2.
Check WSDOT’s travel guides before you dash through the snow
Before you head over the pass for the holidays, check your tires and grab your chains. And download the WSDOT app for the latest pass conditions and travel guidance. Last week, the agency posted seasonal notices about winter driving tips, holiday traffic, seasonal pass closures, and more.
Washington State Patrol will be conducting emphasis patrols through the weekend. People are reminded to avoid speeding and distracted driving to make sure everyone can arrive at their destination safely.
OII to begin investigating use of deadly force by law enforcement
The Washington State Office of Independent Investigations remains on track to begin reviewing use-of-deadly-force incidents by law enforcement by December 1. OII is phasing in operations, starting in Southwest Washington and the Olympic Peninsula. OII will expand into other regions as it hires more investigators and acquires the additional resources needed for an investigative team, from response vehicles to evidence storage facilities and other required tools
|
