When Gov. Jay Inslee proposed whopping new tax increases last week, state Rep. Andrew Barkis (R-Olympia) said when he almost had to pull over his car. “I was dumbstruck by the justification, the call for new taxes, in a time when we have never seen more revenue in the State of Washington,” he said. Barkis thinks instead of tax hikes, the state should give the people of Washington a tax rebate. (My Northwest)

The state Liquor and Cannabis Board might walk back its plan to crack down on cannabis-infused candies. The proposed rules were intended to protect kids from taking marijuana candies. “We really found that candy and chocolates marketed toward adults had muted tones…maybe one accent color,” said Nicola Reid, WSLCB licensing policy and compliance manager. “Candy marketed toward children had a multitude of colors.” (Seattle Times)

Thurston County’s next courthouse and office complex could move closer to the state capitol dome. A study recommends any new county building be built nearer the entrance of downtown Olympia. While county officials are exploring options, no funding has been identified. (The Olympian)

Port of Walla Walla commissioners approved a $30.1 million budget last week, including a few major projects. The expenses are split between the Port and the Walla Walla Regional Airport. Of the projects, the development of the Wallula water system is the agency’s most ambitious. (Walla Walla Union-Bulletin)

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