The bill establishes a new "crime firearm reward program" aimed at incentivizing individuals to provide information to law enforcement regarding firearms used in the commission of crimes. Under this program, individuals who submit relevant information about the location of such firearms may receive a cash reward of up to $500 if the firearm is recovered. If the firearm is linked to a felony conviction, the reward can increase to up to $5,000. However, law enforcement officers, individuals with outstanding warrants, and government employees are excluded from receiving these rewards. The funding for these rewards will come from the county and municipal criminal justice assistance accounts.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws related to the county and municipal criminal justice assistance accounts, specifically RCW 82.14.310, 82.14.320, and 82.14.330. It modifies the definitions of eligible expenditures from these accounts to include payments made pursuant to the new crime firearm reward program. The bill also clarifies that funds from these accounts must be used exclusively for criminal justice purposes and cannot supplant existing funding. The amendments aim to enhance the effectiveness of local law enforcement agencies in addressing firearm-related crimes and improving overall public safety.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 82.14.320, 82.14.330