2026 Legislative Priorities
PRIORITY BILLS
Independent Prosecution
SB 5584 & HB 1740
We need an independent prosecutor to make the charging decisions for police use of deadly force. In 2021 the legislature created a state-wide office to do criminal investigations into officers' use of deadly force where there is a death or serious injury. The caseload from this office needs to be handled by a state-independent prosecutor separate from the 39 county prosecutors.
AG Investigations and Reform
SB 5066 & HB 1056
Accountability for Police and sheriff’s departments is an important part of culture change. This grants authority to the state attorney general to do investigations of agencies where there is an alleged pattern and practice of violating the civil and constitutional rights of persons. This state-level authority would complement the US. DOJ authority and will promote a basic level of quality policing across the state.
Sheriffs and Police Chiefs Eligibility
HB 1399 & SB 5364
We must modernize and align the laws governing sheriffs, chiefs, and marshals to enhance accountability, public trust, and confidence in law enforcement leadership. By clarifying eligibility requirements, certification standards, background check procedures, and the permissible use of volunteers, this legislation aims to promote professionalism, transparency, and consistency in law enforcement practices throughout Washington State.
BILLS OF SUPPORT
Civilian Responders
Strengthens and expands local governments’ ability to establish and deploy civilian-led alternative response teams—such as Seattle’s Community Assisted Response and Engagement (CARE) Team. The bill seeks to modernize state law so cities can fully utilize behavioral-health professionals, social workers, and community responders for non-violent, behavioral health-related 911 calls.
Police Tactics
When seeking to introduce a defendant's statement as evidence, the prosecution must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant made the statement voluntarily. This bill deems a statement made during an interrogation is presumed to be inadmissible if the court determines that the interrogating officer intentionally engaged in deception to obtain the statement.
BILLS OF NOTE
OII Authority Expansion
Expands OII authority to reinvestigate past cases where the investigation was substandard.
Regulating the use of ALPRs
Creates guardrails against who can access and retain license plate information.
Body-worn Cameras
Prohibits law enforcement from covering their faces while performing duties.
Facial Covering Prohibition
Requires officers to use body-worn cameras throughout an encounter.