Investigations
A WA worker’s death reveals the limits of safety enforcement
A fatal trench collapse in 2016 set precedent for holding employers criminally liable, but officials still struggle to head off repeat violations.
Lizz Giordano
Lizz Giordano is Cascade PBS's investigative reporter, focused on following working conditions, government oversight procedures and labor organizing efforts across Washington state. Before jo
Latest work
Investigations
With 3 recent wins, Starbucks union gains traction in Eastern WA
Reduced hours and dwindling benefits spur baristas to action as a small Prosser cafe becomes the 27th in the state to vote to unionize.
Investigations
Sound Transit settles whistleblower case over safety complaints
The former employee alleged that supervisors retaliated against him for raising concerns about repair records and other safeguards.
Investigations
A new WA law may not cure hospital staff shortages, nurses say
Local committees will still set nurse/patient ratios amid new state oversight, but workers argue the current complaint system falls short.
Investigations
Everett shelter got $3M in COVID relief despite complaints
Local officials signed new contracts with The Hand Up Project after two residents died last year and former employees alleged financial mismanagement.