Governor Chris Gregoire yesterday signed into law a measure that will close tax loopholes in the unemployment-insurance system and keep $1 billion a year in federal tax credits for Washington businesses. The new law targets employers who try to manipulate their unemployment tax rate by purchasing, restructuring or merging a business to get a lower rate. Similarly, $1.8 million in the supplemental budget was earmarked to increase efforts to detect and investigate fraud by employers and by unemployment claimants, and to collect unpaid taxes and invalid unemployment payments. The funding comes from penalties and interest collected from violators over the past year.
More Stories From This Author
Bills Towing-Auction Notice
By Amanda Kahlke amanda.kahlke@tacomadailyindex.com
City of Fircrest-NOTICE OF APPLICATION
By Amanda Kahlke amanda.kahlke@tacomadailyindex.com
City of Tacoma-REQUEST FOR BIDS
By Amanda Kahlke amanda.kahlke@tacomadailyindex.com
TS #: 24-70808-NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S...
By Amanda Kahlke amanda.kahlke@tacomadailyindex.com
Here’s how child care oversight works in WA
How does oversight of child care spending actually work in Washington state?
By Keelin Everly-Lang keelin.everly-lang@soundpublishing.com • February 5, 2026 5:35 am
Bill seeks to update state’s involuntary treatment law
The Senate Law and Justice Committee held a hearing Feb. 2 for legislation that would make it easier to commit…
By Cassie Diamond, WNPA Foundation • February 4, 2026 5:30 am
Rural homes in WA could be safer under proposed bill
Entire neighborhoods could get home insulation, air pollutants and mold protection, age-in-place accessibility measures like ramps and handrails, and more…
By Annika Hauer, WNPA Foundation • February 3, 2026 5:30 am




