Summary: Businesses React To New Background–Check Proposal: Seattle City Councilmember Bruce Harrell has sponsored a proposal to prevent employers from conducting background checks before they meet with job candidates. George Allen of the Seattle Chamber of Commerce responds on behalf of concerned Seattle business owners. Criminal Allegations In The Race For State Auditor: James Watkins, the Republican candidate for Washington state auditor, has accused his Democratic challenger Troy Kelley of fraud and theft. Watkins has launched a new campaign website with links to court documents involving Kelley and his businesses. Austin Jenkins reports. Safety At Western State Hospital, Part II: Western State Hospital in Lakewood is the largest psychiatric institution in the Pacific Northwest. In part two of KUOW's investigation, John Ryan looks at safety improvements Western has — and has not — taken in the wake of two patient deaths in April.
