Thanks to everyone who attended the State of the Counties Membership Luncheon on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. Benton County Commissioner Michael Alvarez and Franklin County Commissioner Stephen Bauman gave insightful presentations on their prospective counties, touching on economic development, partnerships, public safety, and more.
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Washington State Introduces “Washington Saves” Retirement Program Washington state is taking steps to implement a new retirement program, joining 15 other states with similar initiatives. The recently passed ESSB 6069 establishes “Washington Saves,” an automatic enrollment individual retirement savings program. Key Points:
This initiative aims to empower individuals to save independently for their retirement, contributing to long-term financial security. Despite initial confusion with other state programs, the auto-enrollment retirement plan is designed to benefit Washington residents in the years to come. You can learn more about the program here. AuthorMatt Murphy, TCRCC Government and Regional Affairs Director, matt.murphy@tricityregionalchamber.com Congratulations to Lucky Leaf Co. on their ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, April 19! The cannabis retailer is located at 3501 Rd. 68, #104 in Pasco. The workforce of 16-17-year-olds in Washington State represents a significant, yet often overlooked, potential for businesses. Let’s explore the current regulations, and challenges associated with employing minors. In Washington State, employers are required to comply with specific laws and rules when hiring minors. These include obtaining a Minor Work Permit endorsement on their business license, maintaining specific information on file for each minor worker, and adhering to restrictions on the hours that minors can work. During the school year, 16-17-year-olds are allowed to work up to 4 hours per day and 20 hours per week. However, during non-school weeks, they can work up to 8 hours per day and 48 hours per week. These restrictions are designed to ensure that employment does not interfere with their education. While there are potential benefits, there are also challenges associated with employing 16-17-year-olds. These include managing their limited availability due to school commitments and ensuring compliance with labor laws. Employers must also provide a safe and appropriate work environment for young workers. The 16-17-year-olds represent an untapped workforce that could potentially benefit many businesses. However, it’s crucial for employers to understand and comply with the regulations associated with employing minors. With careful management and adherence to labor laws, businesses can successfully integrate these young workers into their operations. During the 2024 legislative session, two bills were introduced to help businesses and students navigate and potentially take advantage of this untapped labor market. Rep. April Connors and Rep. Stephanie McClintock both introduced bills to assist with this resource. Unfortunately, neither bill made it out of committee. The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) is currently seeking feedback on a draft administrative policy regarding the employment of minors. This policy specifically guides scheduling and hours of work requirements for minors. Unlike the Revised Code of Washington (RCWs) and Washington Administrative Code (WACs), the draft administrative policy provides more detailed information. This is an excellent opportunity for you to share any concerns you may have with the limitations and restrictions on the days, times, and hours that minors may work. Here is the link to the information from L&I regarding a virtual feedback session on April 26 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., or written comments can be submitted to L&I through May 31. AuthorMatt Murphy, TCRCC Government and Regional Affairs Director, matt.murphy@tricityregionalchamber.com On February 23, 2024, Wallula Gap Solar, LLC applied to EFSEC to construct and operate a 60-MW solar photovoltaic (PV) project with an optional battery energy storage system (BESS) in Benton County, Washington. The proposed facility would be located approximately 4 miles northwest of Plymouth, spanning across about 437 acres of three parcels owned by Farmland Reserve, Inc. The facility would consist of PV modules mounted on single-axis trackers, which would tilt from east to west throughout the day to maximize energy output. The optional BESS, designed to store power generated by the facility and dispatch it to the electrical grid at a later time, would not exceed the facility’s 60-MW capacity. Currently, the facility plans to use lithium-ion battery energy technology, but other technologies could be considered based on commercial interest. The facility would interconnect to Benton Public Utility District’s 115-kV line near the Prior #2 substation and then connect to the Bonneville Power Administration’s facilities at the Plymouth tap, where Benton PUD and BPA facilities connect at BPA’s McNary substation. The EFSEC has scheduled an Open House, Public Information Hearing and Land Use Consistency Hearing for April 23rd. The hearing will include a virtual and in-person components. The may attend the meeting in person at: Kennewick Valley Grange #731 2611 S Washington St Kennewick, WA 99337 Virtual attendance is available via Microsoft Teams or via phone at:
Additional information about the venue such as maps and directions can be found on our website: https://www.efsec.wa.gov/energy-facilities/wallula-ga AuthorMatt Murphy, TCRCC Government & Regional Affairs Director, matt.murphy@tricityregionalchamber.com Congratulations to AtkinsRéalis on the grand opening of their new Technology Center. The facility is located at 2801 George Washington Way in Richland - near WSU Tri-Cities. Congratulations to Boot Barn on their ribbon cutting and grand opening on Friday, April 12! Check out their store at 1321 N. Columbia Center Blvd., Ste. 850 in Kennewick (right next to the Columbia Center Mall - formerly Ulta Beauty). We are currently seeking volunteers to join our Local Government Affairs Committee. This is a unique chance for individuals who are passionate about business and government regulations to make an impact in our community.
Why Join the Local Government Affairs Committee? The Local Government Affairs Committee is a platform where you can engage in meaningful discussions about local government affairs and advocate for policies that promote a favorable business climate. It's a place where you can collaborate with other business leaders to address regulatory challenges and influence the direction of our local business community. What Can You Expect? As a volunteer, you will be part of a team that identifies and advocates on issues relating to business and government regulations. Your insights and experiences will be invaluable in shaping the business landscape of the Tri-City region. How to Get Involved? If you're interested in volunteering, we'd love to hear from you! Please reach out to us and we'll guide you through the next steps. We look forward to welcoming you to our committee and working together to make the Tri-City region a better place for businesses to thrive. You can reach Matt Murphy, Government & Regional Affairs Directory at matt.murphy@tricityregionalchamber.com Thanks to everyone who came out to Business After Hours at Columbia Ability Alliance on Thursday, April 11. We hope you had a wonderful time and made some fruitful new business connections. |
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