The bill aims to address the challenges of attracting and retaining commissioned law enforcement officers in Washington State, particularly in light of recent societal changes and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. To facilitate this, the legislation authorizes counties and cities to impose a sales and use tax, specifically set at a rate of 0.10 percent, which can be credited against the state sales and use tax. This tax revenue is intended to be used primarily for the purpose of attracting and retaining law enforcement personnel, with at least 50 percent of the funds allocated for this purpose. The bill also outlines a timeline for when different counties and cities can impose this tax based on their population size.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law regarding basic law enforcement training requirements. It specifies that law enforcement personnel employed after July 1, 2023, must commence basic training within a designated timeframe, while also allowing for waivers or extensions by the commission. The bill clarifies that limited authority Washington peace officers are not required to complete the basic law enforcement academy if they meet certain criteria, including prior employment in specific roles and maintaining current training requirements. Furthermore, it includes provisions for the commission to reimburse law enforcement agencies for the costs associated with training personnel, particularly for agencies with ten or fewer full-time commissioned patrol officers.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.101.200