NEWS

(OLYMPIA)– This week, Washington became the first state in the nation to adopt broad restrictions on more than two dozen chemicals used in cosmetic products that can release formaldehyde. Formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers are commonly used to extend the shelf life of a product—but formaldehyde is also a known carcinogen. People – especially women and people who use or work with cosmetics – can be exposed to these cancer-causing chemicals through repeated use of products like shampoos, eyelash glue, nail polishes, and hair treatments, according to a news release from the Washington Department of Ecology. Under a new rule adopted by     (read more)

(OLYMPIA)– The Productivity Board, a state employee incentive program of the Office of the Secretary of State, voted unanimously, Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025, to approve recognition of two teams of Washington state employees for their suggestions to reduce costs, saving more than $9.8 million in taxpayer money. In total, 17 employees across two teams submitted their cost-savings ideas through the Productivity Board’s Teamwork Incentive Program and are eligible for cash awards up to $10,000 or 25% of the savings derived from the project period, whichever is less, according to a news release from the Office of the Secretary of State. “I continue to be inspired     (read more)