The proposed 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 bill emphasizes the importance of timely communication to prevent violence, citing a tragic incident in Minnesota as a catalyst for this initiative. The Secretary of State, with assistance from the military department, will oversee the implementation of this system, which will include a database of enrolled officials and protocols for emergency notifications.
Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to ensure that information related to the notification system is protected from public disclosure, with specific exemptions for public officials requesting access to their own information. It also outlines the responsibilities of the state 911 coordination office, including the provision of data to the Secretary of State when threats are confirmed. The legislation seeks to create a more secure environment for public officials by facilitating efficient communication during emergencies while safeguarding sensitive information.