The bill aims to enhance the safety of public officials in Washington by establishing a statewide emergency public official notification system. This system is designed to alert public officials when any enrolled official contacts a 911 emergency communications system and when there is a confirmed targeted threat against any public official. The initiative is motivated by tragic events in Minnesota, where public officials were victims of violence, highlighting the need for timely communication to prevent similar incidents. The military department will oversee the implementation of this system, which will include a database of enrolled officials and ensure that emergency notifications do not disclose personal information.
Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to integrate this new notification system with the state's 911 emergency communications framework. It includes provisions for the military department to maintain records related to the notification system, which will be exempt from public inspection to protect sensitive information, although public officials may request access to their own records. The bill also mandates that the state 911 coordination office provide data to the military department regarding any incidents involving enrolled public officials, thereby fostering a collaborative approach to public safety.