A police officer stands in front of counter protesters during the Seattle Police Officers Guilds rally. The vote tally was 53-44, with one member absent. Five Democrats joined nearly all Republicans in voting no, while two Republicans joined the majority of Democrats in voting yes.
This isn’t the first time the idea has passed the House. A similar version of the bill passed in 2023 with nearly the same vote count, 52-44, with two members excused. But it died in the Senate after the, has been revised to address concerns about cost and constitutional issues. It is part of broader reforms aiming for more accountability in policing, alongside other proposed bills.
Democratic lawmakers and police accountability activists have been advocating for the creation of an Office of Independent Prosecutions within the“Many marginalized communities don’t trust the police. Creating a truly independent effort to prosecute would hopefully improve relations between the police and the community,” Goodman said. “This office would operate separately but simultaneously with local prosecutors, aiming to ensure fairness and transparency in the process.
A judge would determine the best course of action if both the local prosecutor and the attorney general’s office seek indictments. Provisions for the new framework would take effect in July 2026 if the bill becomes law.Matt Markovich often covers the state legislature and public policy for KIRO Newsradio. You can read more of Matt’s storiesIn March 2022, the Washington Legislature passed a law -- requested by Ferguson -- banning the sale of ammunition magazines that hold more than 10 rounds.
The bill’s sponsor Senator Karen Kieser, D-Des Moines, said it will provide a safety net to people who have no access to any other health insurance.On permanent standard time, Washington would still have 4 p.m. sunsets in the winter, but would lose the 10 p.m. sunsets in the summer.City Attorney Ann Davison announced the ordinance is once again in effect. If you tag something, prepare to be charged with a gross misdemeanor.