Newsletter | July 15, 2025 | | |
IN THIS ISSUE
IN THE NEWS
ON THE LOCAL FRONT
POLICY
ECONOMY
POLITICAL NEWS
RETAIL THEFT & PUBLIC SAFETY
| | Pictured left to right: WR's Mark Johnson, Senator Jeff Holy (R-6th), Senator Manka Dhingra (D-45th), and WR President & CEO, Renée Sunde. | | |
Senators Dhingra and Holy awarded as Champions of Public Safety
Washington Retail proudly recognizes Senator Manka Dhingra (D-45th) and Senator Jeff Holy (R-6th) as the“2025 Champions of Public Safety,” honoring their outstanding leadership in passing HB 2015, a landmark bipartisan bill that addresses Washington’s public safety challenges with bold, long-term solutions.
Public safety has been a top priority for WR, as retail theft and threats to employee and community well-being have escalated statewide. WR and its members have invested countless hours in advocating for practical, effective responses to these complex issues, culminating in the passage of HB 2015 during the 2025 legislative session.
Championed by Senator Holy and Senator Dhingra, HB 2015 provides state funding to hire more law enforcement officers, prosecutors, public defenders, and community-based service providers. The legislation also empowers local governments to establish sustainable, long-term public safety funding programs.
The success of HB 2015 is a direct result of bipartisan collaboration and tireless effort. WR is grateful for Governor Ferguson’s early commitment to public safety and for the extraordinary leadership demonstrated by Senators Dhingra and Holy throughout the process.
On behalf of WR’s members, board, and staff, we thank and applaud both Senators for their vision and determination, and proudly name them our 2025 Champions of Public Safety.
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Washington Retail Association Board retreat: Building momentum for the future of retail
Set against the backdrop of the lush forests and historic architecture of The Lodge at St. Edward in Bothell, the Washington Retail Association (WR) Board of Directors convened for its annual summer retreat on June 26–27, 2025. With the state's retail sector undergoing significant change, the gathering offered a vital opportunity for WR’s leadership, comprising CEOs, operations executives, and public affairs professionals, to shape the future of retail in Washington.
Bringing together representatives from approximately 3,500 storefronts across the state, the retreat allowed the board to reflect on WR’s mission to be the unified voice of Washington’s diverse retail community. Through strategic discussions, policy planning, and collaborative visioning, Board members reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the state’s retail landscape and ensuring its continued resilience.
A strong emphasis was placed on foundational governance, including financial stewardship, board structure, and administrative transitions. These discussions helped ensure WR remains agile, transparent, and aligned with best practices as it moves into a new era.
One of the key themes throughout the retreat was partnership, particularly in addressing complex challenges such as organized retail crime. WR continues to partner in the development of public-private collaborations to confront this growing threat. Representatives from the Attorney General’s Office and the Washington State Fusion Center joined WR leaders to share insights and discuss coordinated strategies to improve safety and reduce loss in communities statewide.
The group also explored WR’s role in shaping public opinion and local elections. As part of the ongoing "Promise of the Future" campaign, our contract team provided updates on efforts to influence critical municipal elections, particularly in Seattle, where retail policy outcomes often have statewide implications. The conversation reinforced WR’s proactive role in helping to elect leaders who understand the economic and social importance of a thriving retail sector.
Policy and legislative engagement remained central throughout the retreat. Board members reviewed the outcomes of the 2025 legislative session and began identifying top priorities for the year ahead. With a rapidly evolving political landscape, the retreat allowed WR’s Government Affairs team to align closely with board members on long-term strategies, grassroots mobilization, and preparing for the 2026 session.
Special guest appearances by Senators Manka Dhingra and Jeff Holy, along with Representatives Janice Zahn and Shelley Kloba, highlighted the strong, bipartisan relationships WR maintains with lawmakers. Their participation underscored the importance of the retail sector in broader economic and public policy conversations.
Beyond formal sessions, the retreat included time for reflection and connection. A guided trail walk to Lake Washington offered a moment of shared rejuvenation, while an evening dinner provided space to celebrate milestones, most notably the retirement of longtime WR Sr. VP of Policy and Government Affairs, Mark Johnson.
As WR looks to the future, succession planning remained a critical focus. A facilitated discussion explored how to maintain organizational continuity and leadership development. These conversations are part of a broader effort to ensure WR is prepared for the long term, both in governance and in the evolving needs of its membership.
The 2025 Board Retreat served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when retail leaders come together with purpose. With clarity, collaboration, and renewed energy, WR is well-positioned to continue advocating for its members, promoting innovation, and safeguarding the future of retail in Washington.
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Seattle City leaders discuss public safety, economic recovery with business community
On June 10, WR, in partnership with Schwabe and the Washington Business Properties Association (WBPA), co-hosted a dynamic meet-and-greet event at the U.S. Bank City Center in downtown Seattle. The event featured Seattle City Council President Sara Nelson and City Attorney Ann Davison and was designed to give business owners and leaders in and around Seattle a deeper look into the city’s efforts to improve public safety, economic vitality, and overall livability.
Moderated by TVW anchor Mike McClanahan, the evening featured an engaging discussion that explored the challenges and opportunities facing Seattle’s business climate. Speakers shared updates on current city-led initiatives to reduce crime, revitalize downtown, and foster a more welcoming environment for businesses and workers.
City Attorney Ann Davison spoke to the importance of a thriving city, stating, “An economically vibrant, healthy city is what we’re all working toward.” She also praised Council President Nelson’s leadership and tireless commitment to actionable progress: “Sara is the hardest working, always thinking about what to do now, what to do later, but how to do it all.”
Council President Nelson echoed the urgency and importance of business engagement: “I know that brick-and-mortar matters, and retail will have a seat at my table,” she said. “It’s time for City Hall to stop letting downtown fend for itself. It’s time to give retail a real seat at the table.”
The event's goals were threefold: to highlight the successes of city leaders and their shared vision for Seattle’s future, to engage business owners and leaders in meaningful dialogue about the city’s economic and public safety strategies, and to foster greater collaboration with the business community on top issues impacting Seattle.
Following the panel, attendees had the opportunity to connect one-on-one with the speakers during a networking reception with light refreshments. The evening underscored WR’s continued commitment to convening conversations that connect members with key policymakers and contribute to a more vibrant and resilient retail landscape across Washington.
| | Pictured left to right: WR's Mark Johnson, Past Board Chair, Alesha Shemwell, Kemper Development/The Bellevue Collection, and Board Chair, Opio Dupree, Macy's. | |
Mark Johnson honored for 20 years of service
After more than two decades of dedicated service to the Washington Retail Association and a remarkable 40-year career in government affairs, Mark Johnson, Sr. Vice President of Policy and Government Affairs, is retiring.
Mark has been a pillar of WR’s advocacy efforts, bringing deep experience, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering commitment to representing the interests of Washington’s retail industry. Throughout his tenure, he has successfully lobbied the state legislature, fostered collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and cultivated meaningful partnerships with business groups across the state.
“Mark has been an essential part of our success in Olympia,” said Renee Sunde, President and CEO of the Washington Retail Association. “His intellect, integrity, and ability to build relationships have made a lasting impact, not just on our organization, but on the entire retail community in Washington. It has been an honor to work alongside him.”
Representative Andrew Barkis (R-2nd) shared his appreciation as well: “It has been a pleasure working with Mark for the last ten years in the legislature. A consummate professional. I have really enjoyed getting to know Mark and wish him all the best.”
Known by his colleagues as observant, intelligent, considerate, polished, and well-spoken, Mark’s professionalism and warmth have left an indelible impression on all who have worked with him.
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Appointed lawmakers launch 2025 campaigns to retain legislative seats
WR’s Government Affairs team recently attended the campaign kickoff event for Representatives Osman Salahuddin (D-48) and Janice Zahn (D-41), both who are running in the November 2025 special election to retain their seats in the Washington State Legislature. Both lawmakers were appointed earlier this session following the promotion of their predecessors.
Rep. Salahuddin, a Redmond native and former city councilmember, was appointed in January to replace Vandana Slatter, who moved to the State Senate.
Rep. Zahn was appointed to the 41st District seat after Tana Senn became Secretary of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Rep. Zahn previously served on the Bellevue City Council and as the Chief Engineer at the Port of Seattle.
Both representatives, in addition to other lawmakers appointed to the legislature, are actively campaigning ahead of the August 5 primary and November 4 general election.
WR will continue to provide campaign updates. To get involved in the WR PAC and endorsement process, please reach out to Crystal Leatherman, Director of Local & State Government Affairs (cleatherman@washingtonretail.org | 360-884-0771)
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Mayor and Councilmember propose new tax restructuring and hikes
Mayor Bruce Harrell and Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck released a plan to shift some of the city’s business and occupancy (“B&O”) tax from small businesses to the businesses in the city with the highest gross revenues.
Facing a $240 million budget shortfall over the next two years, this tax plan would also generate additional tax revenue for the city. The proposal would exempt businesses with less than $2 million in gross revenue from paying any city B&O tax. According to the Mayor’s office, this exemption would cover 76% of businesses in Seattle. Another 14% of businesses would pay less in taxes.
The remaining 10% of businesses, those with the highest gross revenues, would pay B&O taxes that are 50% higher than what they currently pay. For large grossing retailers, the tax rate would jump from $.22 per $100 in revenue to $.34.
The Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce has already announced its opposition to the tax proposal. Katie Wilson, the progressive challenger to Mayor Harrell, supports the proposal but also called it cynical. “Harrell’s in a corner and he’s doing what he has to do and he’s trying to make it look like he’s taking the lead,” Wilson said. “He’s not.”
| | Image: Seattle City Council Blog | | |
Seattle Councilmember announces her resignation
For the second time in less than two years, a Council seat will open following a resignation. In early January 2024, Councilmember Tammy Morales quit her District 2 seat. Last week, it was Councilmember Cathy Moore, who announced her resignation from her District 5 seat. Moore succeeded two-term Councilmember Debora Juarez in 2023.
A former Superior Court Judge, Moore focused her Council time on addressing public safety concerns of her District 5 constituents. In the face of strong progressive opposition, she led the fight to pass the Stay Out of Areas of Prostitution (“SOAP”) legislation. Her district includes north Aurora Avenue, an area plagued by heavy prostitution activity for decades. The SOAP legislation targeted pimps and customers, empowering judges to order people arrested for, or convicted of, engaging prostitutes to stay out of the SOAP area or face further prosecution.
Elected with the support of Council President Sara Nelson, Moore generally sided with the moderate majority on the Council. Last year, during Council budget deliberations, however, Moore proposed a capital gains tax to help close the City’s budget shortfall. Although it did not pass, a majority of the Council opposed it on the grounds that it needed further study. This year, she proposed, then withdrew, legislation to reform the City’s broken ethics rules after it drew opposition from the Mayor and progressives.
Unlike the District 2 seat, now held by Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck, Moore’s seat will not be on the 2025 ballot. Because the resignation occurred after this year’s candidate filing deadline, her appointed successor will serve for nearly 17 months. Once her resignation is effective on July 7, the Council will have 21 days to appoint her replacement, who will serve until voters choose her successor in the 2026 general election.
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2025 Law Review: A comprehensive tool for members only
Washington Retail (WR) has published and distributed its 2025 Legislative Law Review to all dues-paying members. This in-depth, 49-page report provides a comprehensive summary of the most impactful legislation passed during the recent session. It outlines the new laws retailers must comply with, their implementation timelines, and the specific requirements that will affect business operations.
Equally important, the Law Review details the legislative proposals that WR successfully opposed, particularly those that would have introduced excessive regulations or additional costs for retailers.
Retailers who are not yet members but wish to receive the Legislative Law Review, along with access to WR’s full suite of resources and advocacy services, are encouraged to contact Crystal Leatherman, State & Local Government Affairs Director, at (360) 200-6453 or via email at CLeatherman@washingtonretail.org.
If you are a current member and did not receive your copy of the Law Review, please reach out to kdavies@washingtonretail.org to request one.
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WR releases its 2025 Consumer Affordability Scorecard
Washington Retail (WR) has released the 2025 Consumer Affordability Scorecard, tracking how lawmakers voted on key issues impacting retailers and the customers we serve.
This year’s scorecard includes 15 House votes, 17 Senate votes, and for the first time, a score for the Governor based on action he took on 15 bills.
These votes reflect WR’s priorities on public safety, labor, taxation, and business regulation—issues we actively engaged on through testimony, direct communication, and coalition work.
Some of the bills on the scorecard include:
Retailers across Washington continue to face mounting challenges as the cost of doing business in the state increases. Significant tax increases, strains on safety net programs like unemployment insurance, and growing threats from private rights of action all contribute to an increasingly difficult environment. These policy choices ultimately affect consumer affordability, limiting the ability of retailers to keep prices down, hire and retain workers, and invest in communities.
Please feel free to use this scorecard as a guide to understand which lawmakers are championing policies that promote a competitive, safe, and affordable retail landscape in Washington.
To view the full 2025 Consumer Affordability Scorecard, click here.
To learn more about WR’s advocacy efforts, please contact Crystal Leatherman, WR’s Director of Government Affairs, at cleatherman@washingtonretail.org.
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WR joins coalition urging temporary pause on state and local AI regulations
WR has joined a national coalition in supporting a 10-year moratorium on state and local regulations specific to artificial intelligence (AI). The moratorium, included in the budget reconciliation bill recently passed by the U.S. House, aims to prevent a fragmented regulatory landscape as AI technology continues to evolve.
More than 1,000 AI-related bills have been introduced at the state and local levels in 2025 alone. Advocates for the moratorium argue that this growing patchwork of laws could stifle innovation and place a disproportionate burden on small businesses, which often lack the resources to navigate differing and conflicting regulations.
The proposed pause would allow Congress time to develop a national framework that balances innovation with appropriate safeguards and ensures consistent rules across the country. The deadline to join the coalition letter to the U.S. Senate was June 4.
Read the coalition letter here: Coalition Letter to the Senate
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Ecology proposes rule on PFAS use in consumer products
The Washington State Department of Ecology is proposing updates to Chapter 173-337 WAC, which would limit and require reporting on the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in a range of consumer products. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist in the environment and are linked to health risks including cancer and reproductive harm.
The proposed rule would restrict PFAS use in apparel and accessories, automotive washes, and cleaning products. It would also require manufacturers to report PFAS use in products such as extreme-use apparel, footwear, travel gear, cookware, ski waxes, and personal protective firefighting gear.
These changes would apply to manufacturers, distributors, and retailers selling affected products both in-store and online in Washington State. Ecology will accept public comments on the proposed rule between June 4 and July 20, 2025.
To learn more or submit a comment, visit the Safer Products for Washington Rulemaking webpage or email SaferProductsWA@ecy.wa.gov.
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Washington’s average wage climbs to $95,160 in 2024
Washington’s average annual wage rose 6.8 percent in 2024 to $95,160, according to the state Employment Security Department. This increase outpaced the previous year’s 5.9 percent gain and is expected to impact unemployment insurance benefits, Paid Family and Medical Leave, and employer payroll taxes in 2025 and 2026.
The average weekly wage also grew from $1,714 to $1,830. This growth was driven by a 0.7 percent increase in employment and a 7.5 percent rise in total wages across the state.
Starting July 6, 2025, unemployment benefit levels will increase. The minimum weekly benefit will rise to $366, while the maximum will increase to $1,152. Beginning January 1, 2026, the maximum Paid Leave benefit will grow to $1,647, with the minimum remaining at $100.
Employers will see the taxable wage base increase from $72,800 in 2025 to $78,200 in 2026. Unemployment insurance tax rates are based on employer experience and are issued annually in December.
Sectors showing the largest wage growth included management of companies, information, and utilities. For more details, visit the Employment Security Department’s website.
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Coalition urges action to prevent supply chain disruptions
As tariff pauses near expiration, national trade groups are sounding the alarm over potential supply chain disruptions reminiscent of those seen during the pandemic. The 90-day suspensions on reciprocal tariffs (ending July 9) and China tariffs (ending August 12) have prompted a surge in import activity, contributing to rising freight rates and early signs of port congestion.
In response, the National Retail Federation, National Industrial Transportation League, and National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America are leading a multi-association coalition urging swift federal action. A joint letter addressed to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Federal Maritime Commission Chair Louis Sola calls on the administration to collaborate with industry stakeholders to avoid widespread port delays and economic ripple effects.
WR has signed on in support of the letter, joining other organizations advocating for proactive planning to maintain stable supply chains and protect consumers and businesses alike.
Trade and logistics experts warn that failing to act could result in shipping bottlenecks, rising costs, and delays in merchandise movement across the country. The coalition is requesting immediate engagement to prevent repeat disruptions to U.S. commerce.
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Retail Action Council Board approves first round endorsements
WR's Retail Action Council Committee has approved its first round of endorsements for the 2025 state legislative special elections.
Endorsements were based on several key factors, including candidates’ scores on WR’s Consumer Affordability Scorecard, their willingness to engage with WR’s Government Affairs team, their support for policies that promote economic growth and public safety, and their responsiveness to business community concerns.
The endorsed candidates are:
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The Retail Action Council Political Action Committee represents a diverse coalition of retail members across a broad spectrum of sectors and business sizes. The Retail Action Council PAC proudly endorses candidates from both sides of the aisle who understand the critical role the retail industry plays in Washington State’s economy and are supportive of retail issues.
Local election endorsements will be announced later this month. For questions regarding the endorsement process, please contact Crystal Leatherman, WR’s Government Affairs Director, at cleatherman@washingtonretail.org.
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Next steps for AG-led Organized Retail Crime Task Force
With the recent transition of RILA’s VCI King County Pilot project to a newly formed public/private partnership with the Washington State office of the Attorney General and Washington Retail Association, the Organized Retail Crime (ORC) Task Force continues to build momentum following the recent meeting. This first transition meeting brought together approximately 45 law enforcement, prosecutors, retailers, and analysts, all committed to addressing the rising tide of organized retail crime in Washington.
Key outcomes from the most recent task force meeting include:
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Regular Monthly Meetings: The task force will now meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 10:00 a.m. via Zoom. This schedule ensures consistent collaboration and the ability to respond nimbly to emerging trends and cases.
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New Process Development: With the conclusion of pilot agreements between retailers and Auror, the group recognized the need to adapt. A smaller working group is being formed to evaluate and streamline data-sharing solutions across platforms. Those interested in participating can reach out to Renée Sunde (rsunde@washingtonretail.org), Genevieve Brownlee (genevieve@ravenox.com), or the Attorney General’s Office (ORCU@atg.wa.gov).
To maximize the value of these meetings, John Olsen from the Washington State Fusion Center is coordinating intelligence gathering ahead of time. He is seeking:
- A list of top offenders from various jurisdictions
- Participants willing to present or provide insights on offenders or relevant trends
- Supporting materials, such as photos and summaries of offenders’ activities
If you haven’t connected with John yet, he can be reached at John.Olsen@wsfc.wa.gov.
Moving Forward. This task force represents a unified effort to protect Washington communities from the growing threat of organized retail crime. Through coordinated action, shared intelligence, and innovative solutions, the task force is working to make the state a safer place to shop and work.
Thank you to all participants for your ongoing commitment and collaboration. Together, we are making a meaningful difference.
| | The StarChase device used by Massachusetts State Police has multiple components: the projectile tracker, left, control panel, center, and the key fob, right. (Irene Rotondo/MassLive) | | |
Seattle approves new vehicle tracking tech for police pursuits
The Seattle City Council has approved a new two-year pilot program that will equip 25 Seattle Police Department patrol cars with GPS launchers from the company StarChase. The system allows officers to attach a tracking device to a fleeing vehicle using a magnet and adhesive, enabling law enforcement to monitor its location in real time.
The Council voted 8 to 1 in favor of the pilot, which is supported by a $250,000 state grant. The goal is to reduce high-speed pursuits and enhance public safety. Unlike traditional GPS tracking, which requires a warrant, this system can be deployed based on reasonable suspicion.
StarChase is already used by several agencies in the Puget Sound region, though Seattle’s wetter climate has resulted in a lower success rate. The device’s battery lasts about eight hours.
While proponents say the technology can help reduce dangerous chases and ease burdens on limited police staff, some civil liberties advocates have raised privacy concerns. The ACLU of Washington voiced caution about potential warrantless surveillance and long-term data use.
If deemed successful, the program could continue after the pilot at an annual cost of $40,000. Seattle’s move reflects a broader trend toward technology-driven policing solutions.
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WR diversity statement
WR is committed to the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to create a safe, welcoming environment in which these principles can thrive.
We value all people regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, identity, sexual orientation, nationality, or disability, and that is the foundation of our commitment to those we serve.
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Renée Sunde
President/CEO
360.200.6450
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John Engber
Director, Retail Industry
Coalition of Seattle
206.850.5517
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