Washington’s New Family-Leave Law Is Among The Most Generous in The Nation

Seattle Times | Claudia Rowe | July 6

http://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/politics/washingtons-new-family-leave-law-is-among-the-most-generous-in-the-nation/

“This week, Washington joined four other states in promising to cover workers’ income during childbirth, and coming up with a way to pay for it. While similar in intent, the five existing state laws mandating paid family medical leave have important differences. Washington’s is among the most generous of the bunch, covering at least three months of leave and, for low-wage workers, higher rates of pay. The law takes effect in 2020 for new moms and dads (by birth or adoption) with guaranteed pay for 12 weeks, plus another two for complicated pregnancies.”

Seattle Bike Share Pilot Speeds Ahead, Hitting The Streets As Early As Friday

GeekWire | Monica Nickelsburg | July 6

https://www.geekwire.com/2017/seattle-bike-share-pilot-speeds-ahead-hitting-streets-early-friday/

“Starting Friday, Seattle commuters will have some new options for getting around the increasingly gridlocked city. Last week, the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) released regulations that pave the way for private bike-sharing companies to launch in Seattle under a six-month pilot. The pilot launches Friday and San Francisco-based Spin is hoping to be here right out of the gates. As of Thursday, Spin is still awaiting approval from the city to move forward. But if all goes according to plan, Spin will launch in Seattle this week with about 500 orange bicycles.”

Bremerton Fast Ferry Officially Begins Service Monday

KING | Bryce Newberry | July 5

http://www.king5.com/news/local/bremerton/fast-ferry-service-launches-july-10-between-seattle-and-bremerton/454385054

“Wednesday marked the grand opening of Kitsap Transit’s new fast ferry service from Bremerton to Seattle. “This is the heart of maritime innovation in Kitsap County and we are so excited that the citizens of Kitsap County are taking another step forward in uniting our great state,” Governor Jay Inslee said at the ceremony Wednesday. The official start of service is July 10, running weekdays and Saturdays. A round trip on the ferry will cost $12. Passengers can ride for free throughout July.”