Bill > SB5285

This bill aims to address law enforcement staffing and funding challenges in Washington State by creating a new optional sales and use tax mechanism for cities and counties to support increased law enforcement hiring. The bill highlights that Washington currently ranks last in the nation for law enforcement officers per capita and has experienced high rates of violent and property crime. Under the proposed legislation, local governments can impose a 0.10% sales and use tax specifically designed to fund additional commissioned law enforcement officers. If a city or county already has a law enforcement rate higher than the national average, they may use the generated funds for broader criminal justice purposes, which can include services like domestic violence support, homelessness reduction, and behavioral health programs. The tax would be collected by the state at no cost to local jurisdictions and would be credited against state taxes. Additionally, the bill includes provisions to expand basic law enforcement training requirements and mandate a minimum number of training classes per fiscal year, starting with 27 classes in 2026 and increasing to 28 classes in 2027. The overall intent is to provide financial support and resources to help local jurisdictions improve public safety and increase law enforcement staffing.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5285&Year=2025&Initiative=false