From paint cans to fast fashion, Washington’s counties are tackling big changes in solid waste management. In this episode, Paul Jewell and Travis Dutton break down new proposals to expand paint stewardship, introduce textile recycling, and even revive the bottle deposit debate. Learn how these Extended Producer Responsibility programs could reshape local recycling systems and reduce environmental impacts. Tune in for a fast-paced look at what’s coming down the legislative pipeline.

Recorded: January 16, 2026

----------

County Connection is the official podcast of the Washington State Association of Counties—where we dive into the legislative issues shaping the future of our communities. From budgets to public safety, infrastructure to elections, we’ll break down what’s happening in Olympia and how it impacts counties across the Evergreen State. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us as we amplify the voice of Washington’s 39 counties.

----------

Learn more at wsac.org

Register on The Hub

Follow us:

• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Instagram
• BSKY

The 2026 legislative session is heating up with friction between state and federal priorities. From immigration enforcement and emergency management protocols to Medicaid impacts and behavioral health funding, counties are caught in the crossfire. Join Paul Jewell and Brad Banks as they unpack the bills, budget challenges, and political dynamics shaping public safety and human services this year. Stay tuned for insights on what’s coming next for Washington’s 39 counties.

Recorded: January 16, 2026

----------

County Connection is the official podcast of the Washington State Association of Counties—where we dive into the legislative issues shaping the future of our communities. From budgets to public safety, infrastructure to elections, we’ll break down what’s happening in Olympia and how it impacts counties across the Evergreen State. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us as we amplify the voice of Washington’s 39 counties.

----------

Learn more at wsac.org

Register on The Hub

Follow us:

• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Instagram
• BSKY

Washington counties are facing a full-blown public defense crisis. In this episode, Paul Jewell and Curtis Steinhauer break down why new caseload standards, skyrocketing costs, and limited state support are pushing local justice systems to the edge. From legislative fixes to a high-stakes lawsuit, hear what’s at stake and what counties are doing to protect a constitutional right. Tune in for the inside scoop on one of the most urgent issues of the 2026 session.

Recorded: January 15, 2026

----------

County Connection is the official podcast of the Washington State Association of Counties—where we dive into the legislative issues shaping the future of our communities. From budgets to public safety, infrastructure to elections, we’ll break down what’s happening in Olympia and how it impacts counties across the Evergreen State. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us as we amplify the voice of Washington’s 39 counties.

----------

Learn more at wsac.org

Register on The Hub

Follow us:

• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Instagram
• BSKY