State Workers Get Raises Amid $10 Billion Budget Concerns + Income Tax Conflicts Of Interest?

Washington state employees are set to receive another pay increase as negotiations begin over future compensation packages, even as state officials warn of a potential $7 billion to $10 billion budget shortfall. Critics continue to question Washington's closed-door collective bargaining process and the lack of taxpayer representation during negotiations. The show also examines a pending U.S. Supreme Court decision involving transgender athletes and girls sports. The ruling could have major implications for schools nationwide, including Washington, where state and federal officials remain divided on Title IX policies. The episode revisits conversations with student athletes who have become prominent voices in the debate. Finally, with just weeks remaining before Washington's August primary election, Supreme Court candidate Greg Miller discusses judicial appointments, court independence, and the growing attention surrounding races for the state's highest court. Five Washington Supreme Court seats are on the ballot this year, an unprecedented number that could influence future legal battles involving taxes and major state policies. #WashingtonPolitics #StateBudget #TitleIX #GirlsSports #SupremeCourt #WashingtonSupremeCourt #Taxpayer #GovernmentTransparency #StateEmployees #JudicialElections #WashingtonState #BobFerguson #TheCenterSquare #WashingtonNews #SCOTUS