This bill amends various sections of Washington state law to broaden employment eligibility for law enforcement agencies, firefighters, and prosecutors by allowing all United States citizens and individuals legally authorized to work in the U.S. to apply for positions. Key changes include the removal of the requirement for applicants to be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, thus enabling those with legal work authorization to seek employment. Specific sections amended include RCW 10.93.165, 10.93.200, 41.08.070, 41.12.070, 41.14.100, 36.27.040, 43.101.095, and 77.15.075, with new provisions ensuring that all employees in these roles must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

The bill also introduces new requirements for peace officers and corrections officers, mandating that they must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law. A new section added to chapter 43.101 RCW clarifies that this requirement aligns with federal regulations, preventing employers from circumventing work authorization rules. Additionally, the bill retroactively applies these requirements to individuals employed on or after the effective date of the act, emphasizing the importance of these provisions for public safety and health. The act is set to take effect immediately, ensuring compliance with federal employment laws for all law enforcement personnel in Washington.

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
Engrossed 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