All Bills Signed!
Olympia, WA (DATE)—The Washington Coalition for Police Accountability (WCPA), an organization led by families who’ve lost loved ones to police violence, today celebrates the signing of four key police accountability bills into law.
On April 1, Governor Bob Ferguson signed the Law Enforcement Leaders bill into law, clarifying eligibility requirements and certification standards for sheriffs and marshalls. On March 31, he signed into law investigative authority to the state Attorney General for agencies with alleged civil rights violations. On March 30, he signed the ALPR bill, which regulates use of surveillance technology like automated license plate readers. And on March 19, the Governor signed into law the Facial Coverings Prohibition, prohibiting law enforcement including ICE from covering their faces while performing their duties.
Elaine Simons, WCPA member and foster parent to Jesse Sarey, who was killed by Auburn police in 2019, said, “This marks a triumphant day, thanks to the unwavering dedication and passion of countless individuals who stood united for justice. The Law Enforcement Leaders bill is a testament to the unrelenting efforts of sponsors, advocates, lobbyists, citizens, and families who have been impacted by police violence, all of whom remained steadfast in their pursuit of change.”
WCPA would particularly like to thank Leslie Cushman, Anne Levinson and Paul Benz for their tireless advocacy, as well as the many legislators who have worked on these bills. There are too many lawmakers whose leadership and commitment made a difference to list here, but we would like to especially thank the prime sponsors of these bills: Senator Yasmin Trudeau and Representative Osman Salahuddin (SB 6002), Senator Drew Hansen and Representative Darya Farivar (SB 5925), Senator John Lovick (SB 5974) and Senator Javier Valdez and Representative Julio Cortez (SB 5855).
The Washington Coalition for Police Accountability includes over 40 organizations that worked toward the passage of these bills.
