The bill amends various sections of Washington state law to expand employment eligibility for certain positions within law enforcement and prosecuting attorney offices. Specifically, it allows for the consideration of applicants who are "legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law," replacing the previous requirement that applicants be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. This change applies to general and limited authority law enforcement agencies, civil service positions, and prosecuting attorney offices. Additionally, the bill emphasizes that these provisions must align with federal law and regulations, ensuring that employers cannot bypass work authorization requirements.
Key amendments include the removal of the requirement for applicants to be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents in several sections, including RCW 10.93.165, 10.93.200, 41.08.070, 41.12.070, 41.14.100, 36.27.040, and 77.15.075. A new section is also added to clarify that employees of prosecuting attorneys' offices must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law. The bill aims to create a more inclusive hiring process while maintaining compliance with federal regulations regarding work authorization.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 10.93.165, 10.93.200, 41.08.070, 41.12.070, 41.14.100, 36.27.040, 43.101.095, 77.15.075