Latest from The Spokesman-Review

• Trying to ‘get through it,’ Gregoire signs unpopular budget

  June 16, 2011 in City on Page A1 OLYMPIA – Washington state has a plan to spend some $32 billion on programs, services and salaries over the next two years, leaving a cushion of about $725 million in … 4

• Washington lawmakers balk at cutting safety nets

  January 5, 2011 in City on Page A7 OLYMPIA – There’s no chance the Legislature will ask voters for a tax increase for anything – except maybe for highways and other transportation projects – legislative leaders said Tuesday. … 6

• Washington state files for federal health care reform aid

  March 30, 2010 in City on Page A6 OLYMPIA – Washington state may be first in line for one aspect of the new federal health care reform law – submitting a request for some $180 million in federal … 5

• Washington applies for money under health overhaul law

  March 29, 2010 in City OLYMPIA – Washington state may be first in line for one aspect of the new federal health care reform law — submitting a request for some $180 million in federal … 12

• Face Time: Ralph DeCristoforo

  June 15, 2009 in City on Page A5 Last week, Washington health officials announced a plan to reduce the number of people receiving the state’s Basic Health insurance plan by shifting some onto Medicaid and raising the premiums …