Republican senators Steve O’Ban, John Braun, and Randi Becker announced a number of proposals to improve mental health care in Washington. Ideas include increasing the mental health workforce and improving mental health services in schools. “An investment in helping people with mental illness goes beyond those being treated; it’s good for their loved ones, keeps our communities safer and recognizes the humanity of all people in our state,” Braun said . (Washington State Wire)

Washington State is now in full compliance with federal requirements for state driver’s licenses and ID cards, known as REAL ID. Governor Inslee received a letter from Homeland Security saying it determined the state “has begun implementing a program that meets the standards of the Act and regulation.” So, you won’t be stranded at the airport with a useless ID. (Associated Press)

King County Executive Dow Constantine announced a major overhaul of the county’s investigations into deadly police shootings. Under the changes, the county will focus on whether or not officers followed policies and training and less on the individual perceptions of the officer. “That information should help us be able to determine whether…police agency policies need to be modified and whether the training needs to be different and whether there needs to more of it,” Constantine said. (Seattle Times)

The City of Kirkland might be the next passenger to jump aboard the anti-plastic straw “banned-wagon.” The council is currently working on a report on banning plastic straws and utensils, as well as Styrofoam food containers. Holdout councilmember Toby Nixon says this is part of pattern of “Seattle envy.”A previous council report on a plastic bag ban, Nixon said, “found that two-thirds of Kirkland residents opposed the ban, and yet a plastic bag ban was enacted anyway. It’s pretty clear we’re on that same path with straws.” (My Northwest)

A performance review showed Yakima’s city manager had a number of issues with Police Chief Dominic Rizzi Jr. before firing the chief last month without cause. The review said there were noticeable declines in Rizzi’s performance and productivity due to time and energy he spent pursuing other jobs. The city will pay him $106,000, which includes six months’ severance and 60 days of paid administrative leave. (Yakima Herald-Republic)

The Wapato City Council appointed three new members, all without receiving an application from any of the appointees. Audience members wondered aloud about the legality of appointing new members without going through a formal application process. (Yakima Herald-Republic)

The Union-Bulletin recommends voters send Republican Skyler Rude to Olympia to replace retiring Rep. Terry Nealey. “Rude is as bright as he is pragmatic. We believe he will do an outstanding job working with those within the House Republican caucus to have his (and our) voice heard,” the editorial board wrote. The paper also commented on the “inspiring and refreshing” nature of the race, as Rude and opponent Rebecca Francik have focused on debating policy rather than the divisive rhetoric typical of today’s campaigns. (Walla Walla Union-Bulletin)

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