The bill introduces a new section to chapter 9A.60 RCW that criminalizes false identification as a peace officer. Under this new provision, a person can be charged with a gross misdemeanor for making, providing, or possessing items that falsely identify them as a peace officer, misrepresenting property as belonging to a law enforcement agency, or creating an impression that they are a peace officer. The bill outlines specific criteria for what constitutes false identification and includes defenses against prosecution, such as if the individual was legitimately commissioned as a peace officer at the time the item was issued. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the depiction of law enforcement for cultural or educational purposes is not prohibited.

The bill also amends existing law regarding criminal impersonation in the second degree by removing specific language related to impersonating law enforcement officers. Instead, it focuses on the false assumption of identities related to veterans or active military members and the distribution of forged digital likenesses. The amendments maintain protections for cultural and public interest expressions and clarify that certain entities are not liable for content provided by others. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal framework against impersonation and misrepresentation related to law enforcement.

Statutes affected:
Substitute bill: 9A.60.045