As of June 30, 2027, Washington state law will prohibit noncompetition covenants in most employment and independent contractor relationships.

Driven by a silver tsunami of retiring baby boomers, Spokane-based Stewardship Concepts Financial Services LLC has seen its assets under management surge from $78 million in 2024 to $200 million in April 2026, says Noah Schwab, co-owner and certified financial planner at Stewardship Concepts.

Even as higher vehicle prices, insurance premiums, and borrowing costs continue to squeeze household budgets, Spokane-area lenders say auto loan activity is picking up this year as customers refinance existing loans, stretch payment terms, and hunt for more affordable vehicles.