The bill amends existing laws regarding harassment in Washington State, specifically RCW 9A.46.020 and RCW 40.24.030. It expands the definition of harassment to include threats against election officials, in addition to criminal justice participants. The bill establishes that a person is guilty of a class C felony for harassing these officials if the harassment involves threats to kill or if the harassment is related to actions taken by the officials in their official capacity. Furthermore, it clarifies that threats do not constitute harassment if it is evident that the person making the threat lacks the ability to carry it out. The bill also introduces new provisions for the address confidentiality program, allowing election officials and criminal justice participants who are targets of harassment to apply for protection.

Additionally, the bill specifies that any person residing with a targeted election official or criminal justice participant is also eligible for the address confidentiality program. It outlines the application process for this program, which includes providing sworn statements regarding the applicant's fears for their safety. The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting the identities and addresses of individuals who may be at risk due to harassment or threats, thereby enhancing their safety and security. The act is declared necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety, and takes effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9A.46.020, 9A.90.120, 40.24.030
Substitute Bill: 9A.46.020, 40.24.030
Bill as Passed Legislature: 9A.46.020
Session Law: 9A.46.020