The bill aims to enhance training provided by the criminal justice training commission on a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach for law enforcement and legal professionals dealing with sexual and gender-based violence. It amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to include new training requirements and curricula. Notably, the bill mandates that the training for investigators and prosecutors must incorporate a victim-centered approach, focusing on the neurobiology of trauma and best practices for interviewing and interacting with victims. The training will also be designed to be self-supporting through participant fees and will require completion within specified timeframes for law enforcement officers and prosecutors.

Key amendments include the addition of the student achievement council as a consulting body, the expansion of training to include Title IX investigators at institutions of higher education, and the requirement for peace officers to complete training on responding to sexual violence within one year of assignment and every three years thereafter. The bill also specifies that the training must be adaptable for various law enforcement environments and include resources for victims. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.101.270, 9A.44.150, 43.101.273
Substitute Bill: 43.101.270, 9A.44.150, 43.101.273
Second Substitute: 43.101.270, 9A.44.150, 43.101.273
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.101.270, 9A.44.150, 43.101.273
Session Law: 43.101.270, 9A.44.150, 43.101.273