Bill > SB5584

This bill establishes the position of an independent prosecutor within the office of the governor, specifically to review and potentially prosecute cases involving deadly force by law enforcement officers that result in death. The independent prosecutor will be appointed by the governor for a three-year term and must meet specific qualifications, including being a licensed attorney with no documented history of misconduct or bias. The prosecutor will have the authority to conduct independent investigations, make charging decisions, and prosecute cases of officer-involved fatal use of force, working concurrently with county prosecutors. The bill requires the independent prosecutor to provide annual reports to the legislature detailing the number of investigations reviewed, cases referred for prosecution, and reasons for declining to file charges. The prosecutor is also mandated to keep victims' families informed about the status of investigations and ensure transparency in the process. Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify the roles of county prosecutors and establishes protections for the independent prosecutor from legal action when acting in good faith. The goal of this legislation is to create a more impartial and accountable system for investigating and potentially prosecuting deadly force incidents involving law enforcement.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5584&Year=2025&Initiative=false