This bill amends existing Washington state laws to grant local taxing authority for funding criminal justice initiatives. It allows county legislative authorities to impose a sales and use tax of up to 0.3 percent, contingent upon voter approval, and introduces a provision that permits city legislative authorities to impose the same tax if the county does not do so by July 1, 2024. The bill specifies that one-third of the revenue generated from this tax must be allocated for criminal justice purposes, with additional stipulations that if the tax is imposed by ordinance, all funds must be used for criminal justice, and the total funding for these purposes must exceed prior allocations.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the definition of "criminal justice purposes" to include a broader range of activities, such as coresponder and diversion treatment services, and emphasizes the importance of reducing interactions with the criminal justice system through local government programs. The bill also outlines the distribution of tax proceeds between counties and cities, ensuring that funds are shared equitably based on population. The act is declared an emergency measure, taking effect immediately to support public safety and government functions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 82.14.450, 82.14.340