Bill > SB5646

This bill amends the existing Washington state law on third-degree assault to add a new provision specifically protecting outreach workers. The bill expands the definition of assault in the third degree to include assaults against people employed as outreach workers while they are performing their official duties. The bill provides a detailed definition of outreach workers, describing them as individuals employed by or contracting with social service agencies or government organizations who work with vulnerable populations like homeless individuals, runaway youth, and abuse victims. These workers often conduct needs assessments in various settings including homes, shelters, and street encampments. By adding this provision, the bill creates legal protections that make assaulting an outreach worker during the performance of their job duties a class C felony, which is consistent with other professional categories already protected under the existing law, such as transit operators, school bus drivers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, healthcare providers, and judicial employees. The goal appears to be recognizing the important and often dangerous work of outreach workers and providing them with legal safeguards while performing their essential social services.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5646&Year=2025&Initiative=false