The bill amends existing Washington state laws regarding the penalties for theft and possession of stolen property, specifically focusing on items taken from first responders. It introduces new criteria for classifying possession of stolen property in the first degree, which now includes items valued over five thousand dollars or property critical to firefighters and emergency medical service providers that is taken from their facilities. The bill specifies that if the loss of such property significantly hinders or delays the responders' ability to manage an ongoing emergency, or if the property exceeds $1,000 in value, it qualifies as first-degree possession of stolen property, which is classified as a class B felony.

Additionally, the bill expands the definition of theft in the first degree to include the theft of property or equipment used by first responders under similar conditions. This includes items taken from fire stations or emergency medical service facilities that meet the same criteria regarding value and impact on emergency response. The amendments aim to enhance protections for first responders by imposing stricter penalties for theft of critical equipment, thereby ensuring that they can effectively perform their duties during emergencies.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9A.56.150, 9A.56.030
Substitute Bill: 9A.56.150, 9A.56.030
Bill as Passed Legislature: 9A.56.150, 9A.56.030
Session Law: 9A.56.150, 9A.56.030