Costs

Washington State Legislators Confront $570 Million Dilemma Amid Rising Lawsuit Costs

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Olympia, Washington — Washington state lawmakers are grappling with a substantial budget dilemma as they consider a staggering $570 million in potential payouts related to a surge in lawsuit settlements and judgments. With the financial implications looming for the state budget, legislators are under significant pressure to find a solution that balances accountability and fiscal responsibility. The anticipated payouts are linked to a sharp increase in claims against the state, prompting discussions on reforming liability and settlement processes. Lawmakers have indicated that the growing trend of lawsuits could strain essential public services if not addressed … Read more

Washington’s New Gun Law Hits Dealers Hard: Increased Costs and Delays Amid Stricter Security Measures

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SPOKANE, Wash. — A new law in Washington State mandating stringent security and insurance reforms is placing a heavy financial burden on local firearm dealers, including Jeremy Ball, the owner of Sharp Shooting Indoor Range and Gun Shop. Since the enactment of House Bill 2188, which took effect in July 2025, Ball has reported substantial costs and delays in his business operations. The legislation requires firearm retailers to implement enhanced safety measures, including comprehensive employee background checks, round-the-clock surveillance systems, and a minimum liability insurance coverage of $1 million for each incident. As Ball discusses … Read more

Texas Attorney General’s Controversial Shift to Pricy Private Legal Firms Sparks Concerns Over Conflicts and Costs

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Austin, Texas — An ongoing investigation into the Texas Attorney General’s office reveals a trend toward outsourcing legal work to private attorneys at hefty fees, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest. In one recent case involving Meta, Facebook’s parent company, attorney Zina Bash billed taxpayers a staggering $3,780 an hour for her services, resulting in a $24,570 tab for a single day’s work. Previously, when Bash worked as senior counsel under Attorney General Ken Paxton, similar tasks would have cost the state only $641. However, after moving to private practice, she secured contracts that … Read more

Albany Church Battles Insurer Over Roof Repair Costs After 2014 Storm

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Albany, Georgia — A dispute has arisen following damage to the roof of Central Baptist Church during a severe storm in 2014. The church was covered by an all-risk commercial property policy from Church Mutual Insurance Company. After the incident, the church filed a claim for the necessary repairs, expecting adequate coverage for the incurred damages. The initial assessment provided by an adjuster from Church Mutual estimated that repairing the church’s roof would cost approximately $2,300. However, the insurance company only disbursed $1,302.99 to the church, after applying a deductible of $1,000. Church leaders argue … Read more