Bill > HB1400

This bill updates and clarifies various definitions, processes, and requirements related to law enforcement and corrections officer certification in Washington state. The bill modifies multiple sections of existing law to provide more precise definitions for terms like "certified," "commissioned," and "peace officer," and establishes clearer standards for background checks, training requirements, and certification processes. Key changes include expanding background check requirements to cover officers transferring between agencies, clarifying the conditions under which an officer's certification may lapse, and specifying training requirements for different types of law enforcement personnel, including limited authority peace officers. The bill also makes technical amendments to provisions related to railroad police officers, standardizing language around their commissioning and clarifying the scope of their authority. Additionally, the bill maintains the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission's role in overseeing officer certification, training, and potential decertification, while providing more detailed guidelines for these processes. The changes aim to enhance professional standards, accountability, and consistency in law enforcement personnel certification across different types of agencies in Washington state.

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https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1400&Year=2025&Initiative=false