What Oregon’s Proposed Estate Tax Overhaul Could Mean for Southwest Washington

State Government

What Oregon’s Proposed Estate Tax Overhaul Could Mean for Southwest Washington

A proposed overhaul to Oregon’s estate tax could reduce how many estates owe taxes while increasing rates on the largest inheritances — a shift with potential impacts for Southwest Washington residents who own Oregon property or manage cross-border estates.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Health and Medicine

Vancouver Woman Files Suit Against Major Health Providers Over Drug-Related Movement Disorder

A Vancouver woman has filed suit against Legacy Health, Kaiser Permanente Northwest and two physicians, alleging she developed an involuntary movement disorder after being prescribed medication for a chronic stomach condition.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Courts and Justice

Oregon Bill Targeting Wrongful Convictions Moves Forward, With Potential Regional Impact

A new Oregon bill advancing to a Senate floor vote seeks to overturn wrongful convictions tied to debunked forensic science — a move with potential implications for courts and communities across Southwest Washington.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Environment and Climate

Bald Eagle Survives Collision on I‑5; Rescuers Report Bird is Recovering

A bald eagle struck by a semi-truck on I‑5 in Tumwater is recovering after a multi-agency rescue effort. The incident highlights wildfire risks and wildlife encounters along the I‑5 corridor, including through Cowlitz County.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Federal Government

Daylight Saving Time Set to Begin March 8, 2026

Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 8, 2026, with clocks in Cowlitz County and across Washington set to jump forward one hour at 2 a.m.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Education

Federal Civil Rights Probe into Portland School Initiative Raises Questions for SW Washington Families

Federal officials have opened a Title VI civil rights investigation into Portland Public Schools’ Center for Black Student Excellence. The findings could have implications for equity-focused programs in Southwest Washington.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Federal Government

Statewide Data-Sharing Practices Raise Questions for Cowlitz County Drivers

UW researchers have identified continued federal access to Washington driver data through late 2025, raising oversight concerns for communities statewide, including Cowlitz County, which relies on the same law enforcement data systems.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Business and Economy

Oregon’s Push for Hillsboro Tech Expansion Rekindles Farmland Debate — With Implications Up the I‑5 Corridor

Oregon’s proposed SB 1586 would open Hillsboro farmland to advanced manufacturing, reviving a long‑running land‑use conflict. The debate carries implications for Southwest Washington’s energy planning and regional industrial pressures.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Health

FDA Peanut Butter Recall Includes Shipments to Washington; Local Impacts Still Unclear

A federal Class II recall of single‑serve peanut butter packets includes Washington, with possible implications for schools and institutional kitchens in Cowlitz County. No injuries have been reported, but food service operators are urged to review inventory records.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Environment and Climate

Kessler Boulevard Temporary Closure Announced for Tree Removal

A section of Kessler Boulevard will close daily this week for tree removal, with detours in place via 24th Avenue.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Environment and Climate

Oregon’s Corner‑Crossing Bill Could Shift Western Land‑Access Rules — Here’s What It Means for Southwest Washington

Oregon lawmakers are weighing a bill that would legalize corner crossing between public land parcels. The decision could affect Cowlitz County residents who hunt or recreate in Oregon’s checkerboarded landscapes.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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State Government

Washington Senate Approves Millionaires’ Income Tax Bill After Prolonged Debate

Washington’s Senate has approved a contentious income tax bill targeting million‑dollar earners, with local implications and a divided vote that included dissent from a Battle Ground‑area senator.

The Feed

Feb 18, 2026

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Columbia Countercurrent

Jefferson County’s Prosecutor Shortage Raises Questions for Rural Justice Systems