The bill aims to enhance the hiring of law enforcement and county corrections personnel in Washington State by establishing a law enforcement hiring grant program. This program, developed by the commission, will provide financial support to local and tribal law enforcement agencies for hiring law enforcement officers, county corrections officers, peer counselors, and behavioral health personnel. Grants can cover up to 75% of entry-level salaries and benefits for a maximum of 36 months, with a local cash match requirement of at least 25%. To qualify for these grants, agencies must adhere to specific policy and training requirements, including compliance with crisis intervention and trauma-informed training.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs to compile a report on law enforcement personnel statistics over several years, detailing the number of positions, filled and vacant roles, and retirements. This report will provide insights into vacancy and turnover rates across local law enforcement agencies and is due by January 1, 2026. The bill also includes an appropriation of $100 million from the state general fund to support the implementation of these initiatives, with a provision for the program to expire on July 1, 2026.