This bill introduces new provisions to address the possession of contraband by employees at state correctional facilities and institutions in Washington. It mandates that if the secretary has reasonable cause to believe an employee has possessed contraband, the employee must be immediately suspended. The bill outlines procedures for terminating the employment of individuals found to have possessed contraband or who have been convicted of specific offenses. Additionally, it requires the removal of contractor employees suspected of contraband possession and disqualifies them from future employment in positions with access to correctional facilities.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that contractors must demonstrate significant progress in preventing contraband possession among their employees to renew their contracts. It also establishes that individuals terminated under these provisions will be considered discharged for misconduct, and allows for the discretionary release of information regarding such terminations to the public. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining security within correctional institutions by prohibiting contraband possession and enhancing oversight of contractor practices.