Spokane Headlines: Tax Vote, Valley Fire, and Legislative Shake-Up
Spokane, WA – March 25, 2026 – Lawmakers advance a millionaires tax, a Valley shop fire draws response, and Rep. Jenny Graham won’t seek reelection.
It has been a busy stretch across Spokane and Olympia, with major policy moves, a structure fire in the Valley, and a notable election decision reshaping the local political landscape.
Millionaires Tax Clears State Senate
Washington’s Senate has passed a proposal commonly referred to as a ‘millionaires tax,’ aimed at increasing taxes on the state’s highest earners. Supporters say the measure could generate significant revenue for public services, including education and social programs.
Some state leaders, however, are raising constitutional concerns, arguing the policy could face legal challenges if enacted. The bill now moves to the House, where further debate is expected in the coming weeks.
Firefighters Contain Spokane Valley Shop Fire
In Spokane Valley, crews responded to a structure fire in the 4700 block of North Barker Road. Multiple units from Spokane Valley Fire Department were dispatched, and residents were urged to avoid the area during the response.
Firefighters were able to quickly contain the blaze, preventing it from spreading to nearby properties. No major injuries were immediately reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Rep. Jenny Graham Will Not Seek Reelection
Spokane Representative Jenny Graham announced she will not run for reelection in Washington’s 6th Legislative District. The district includes Airway Heights, Medical Lake, and much of Spokane County.
Her decision opens the door for a competitive race in a district that has drawn growing political attention. Former Spokane City Councilmember Jonathan Bingle has already announced a bid for the same seat, setting up what could become one of the region’s closely watched contests this election cycle.
Sources
https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiggJBVV95cUxOTjV0Tk9UTFhmM01nTjhQazl3Y2N6OFg2ZklBNEJwYzF1bUZqQnpkM
https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMi6AFBVV95cUxNQ0xwMC15SVo5dnJmeWd1TEZrb2ZFUC11UVhBYmV0Z3pNbC1Hd
https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMingFBVV95cUxNMEJ6WmRtRE5YZXlCbXFLc1BGbGpZaGxTR1RNdE9YVUY0eW42
