The bill aims to enhance local law enforcement in Washington State by allowing counties and cities to impose a local sales and use tax of 0.10 percent, which will be credited against the state tax. This tax revenue is designated specifically for hiring additional commissioned law enforcement officers, with provisions for cities that exceed the national average of officers per capita to use the funds for broader criminal justice purposes. The bill also emphasizes the need for increased law enforcement presence due to rising violent crime rates and aims to provide a consistent funding source to support public safety initiatives.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law regarding basic law enforcement training requirements. It specifies that all law enforcement personnel hired after July 1, 2023, must begin their basic training within a certain timeframe, with successful completion being necessary for continued employment. The bill also mandates the Criminal Justice Training Commission to provide a minimum number of basic law enforcement training classes each fiscal year, starting with 27 classes in fiscal year 2026 and increasing to 28 classes in fiscal year 2027, contingent upon adequate funding from the legislature.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.101.200