The bill aims to prohibit the practice of hog-tying by law enforcement officers in Washington State, recognizing the need for accountability and public trust in the criminal justice system. It emphasizes the importance of using modern, humane restraint tactics that align with statewide standards and model use of force policies. The legislature highlights that outdated practices like hog-tying can lead to unnecessary harm and loss of life, and therefore, it is crucial to discontinue such methods.

To implement this prohibition, the bill introduces a new section to chapter 10.116 RCW, which explicitly states that peace officers are not allowed to hog-tie individuals or assist in such actions. It defines hog-tying as fastening together a person's bound ankles and wrists, while clarifying that the use of alternative restraint devices that do not pose a risk of respiratory fatigue or positional asphyxia is still permissible. Additionally, hog-tying is classified as excessive force under existing law, reinforcing the commitment to safer law enforcement practices.