Tagged: Governor Gregoire

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire wants the state to handle local business tax collections, saying a streamlined system would save small businesses time and money.

Gregoire's proposal on Thursday would take the duties away from local jurisdictions, similar to how the state currently collects and distributes sales tax money.

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Gay marriage is poised to become a major issue of debate in Washington in 2012. Governor Chris Gregoire said Wednesday she will personally introduce same-sex marriage legislation this year. Conservative activists responded by vowing to form a coalition to defend marriage as between one man and one woman.

Outside the Governor's office, gay couples and their supporters gathered in giddy anticipation. An informal lottery was held to decide who could watch the speech in person.

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Gov. Chris Gregoire has approved a plan to ease the state's $1.4 billion shortfall.

Gregoire signed a new budget Tuesday that uses a variety of cuts, transfers and delayed payments to save $480 million.

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Illinois did it earlier this year. Now Governor Chris Gregoire wants Washington to explore privatizing the state lottery. That's just one of several ideas she unveiled Thursday to reform general government operations.

It would take legislative approval. But Gregoire wants to invite private companies to bid to take over lottery operations.

"Some have asked me should the state be in the gambling business? Well let me be clear in my opinion on that subject and it is 'No,'" Gregoire says. "So let's see if it can be done better through the private sector."

OLYMPIA, Wash. - Washington Governor Chris Gregoire wants to put teeth into a statewide system for evaluating teachers and principals. In Olympia Tuesday, Gregoire said she'll ask the Legislature to approve a new four tier performance rating. It would go from unsatisfactory, to basic, to proficient, and top out at distinguished.

The governor wants the law to require educators in the two lowest tiers improve within a year or be fired.