This bill seeks to reform civil service regulations in Washington State by allowing recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) to apply for civil service positions. It introduces provisions that grant preference points in competitive examinations for candidates who are bilingual or multilingual, possess higher education degrees, or have relevant work experience in social services, allowing agencies to add up to 15 percent to the passing score based on these qualifications. The bill amends existing laws to include DACA recipients as eligible applicants, thereby broadening the candidate pool for public service roles.

Additionally, the bill establishes requirements for law enforcement agencies employing DACA recipients, mandating a written firearms policy that complies with federal regulations, which permits these individuals to carry firearms if they meet specific criteria. It clarifies that DACA recipients can serve as peace officers or corrections officers and protects agencies from liability concerning changes in federal law affecting DACA employment. The bill also amends RCW 41.06.157 to recognize individuals legally authorized to work in the U.S., including DACA recipients, as eligible for employment, promoting inclusivity and reflecting workforce demographic changes while maintaining provisions for career advancement and competitive salary ranges in higher education institutions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9.41.060, 9.41.171, 9.41.175, 41.12.070, 41.14.100, 77.15.075, 43.101.095
Substitute Bill: 9.41.060, 9.41.171, 9.41.175, 41.12.070, 41.14.100, 77.15.075, 43.101.095
Bill as Passed Legislature: 9.41.060, 9.41.171, 9.41.175, 41.12.070, 41.14.100, 77.15.075, 43.101.095, 41.06.157
Session Law: 9.41.060, 9.41.171, 9.41.175, 41.12.070, 41.14.100, 77.15.075, 43.101.095, 41.06.157