The bill amends the definition of "limited authority Washington law enforcement agency" in RCW 10.93.020 to explicitly include the state department of labor and industries, while clarifying that this inclusion does not grant any new enforcement authority to the department. The updated definition now lists the department of labor and industries alongside other agencies that have specific functions related to the apprehension or detection of individuals committing infractions or violating laws in limited subject areas.
In addition to the insertion of the department of labor and industries, the bill maintains the existing framework of definitions related to law enforcement agencies and officers in Washington state. This includes definitions for general authority and limited authority law enforcement agencies, as well as various types of peace officers. The bill was passed by both the Senate and House and received approval from the Governor, indicating a legislative consensus on the need to clarify the role of the department of labor and industries within the law enforcement framework without expanding its powers.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 10.93.020
Bill as Passed Legislature: 10.93.020
Session Law: 10.93.020