The bill amends RCW 43.330.545 to enhance community engagement with law enforcement, particularly focusing on nonprofit religious schools. It establishes a project within the department aimed at fostering partnerships between law enforcement and communities through various initiatives, including neighborhood organizing, youth mobilization, and business engagement. The bill outlines eligibility criteria for applicants, which must include public agencies or NGOs with experience in community engagement and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Notably, law enforcement agencies can only apply for grants if no other eligible applicants exist in their area.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for grant recipients to lead initiatives that empower community members, build trust between law enforcement and the community, and mobilize youth to prevent violence. The bill also introduces new responsibilities for grant recipients, such as partnering with off-duty law enforcement officers to provide hate crime prevention efforts at nonprofit religious schools. Additionally, the department is tasked with developing reporting guidelines to measure the project's impact on crime rates and community perceptions of law enforcement, with a report due to legislative committees every odd-numbered year. The section is set to expire on January 1, 2029.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.330.545
Substitute Bill: 43.330.545