Bill > HB2156

This bill allows the Attorney General's office to designate certain investigators as "limited authority Washington peace officers," meaning they have specific, restricted law enforcement powers. These designated investigators will be authorized to investigate economic and financial crimes, but their authority will not include the power to detain or arrest individuals, nor will they be allowed to carry firearms. Their ability to serve search warrants is limited to electronic service on businesses after judicial approval, and they cannot physically serve warrants for business records. These investigators must meet all training and background check requirements for peace officers, and their hiring will be subject to standards that prevent individuals with disqualifying histories from serving. Importantly, this bill does not alter the authority or jurisdiction of any other law enforcement agency.