The bill amends RCW 41.56.030 to expand the definition of "uniformed personnel" specifically concerning correctional officers for the purposes of interest arbitration. The new language includes correctional employees, both uniformed and nonuniformed, who are employed in jails, correctional facilities, or detention facilities, and who are responsible for maintaining custody of inmates and ensuring their safety. Notably, the previous requirement that these facilities be located in counties with populations of seventy thousand or more has been deleted, allowing for a broader application of this definition.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the roles of various public safety personnel, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, and public safety telecommunicators, among others. The inclusion of these roles aims to ensure that all relevant personnel are recognized under the interest arbitration framework, thereby enhancing their bargaining rights and protections. This legislative change reflects a commitment to improving the working conditions and rights of those serving in critical public safety roles.