Bill > HB2351

This bill aims to protect emergency responders and their operations in Washington by expanding the definition of "obstructing an emergency responder" to include any person who willfully hinders, delays, or obstructs an emergency responder who is in uniform, announces their role, and is reasonably identifiable as such, making this a gross misdemeanor. It also prohibits cities, towns, and counties from using their resources to investigate or enforce federal programs that target emergency responders based on race, religion, immigration status, or national origin, with certain exceptions for legally required information or deidentified data. Furthermore, the bill establishes "emergency operation zones" during emergencies or disasters, requiring law enforcement officers entering these zones to target emergency responders to display identification, disclose their intentions, obtain warrants for searches or arrests, and avoid disrupting operations, with specific exceptions for ongoing investigations of violent offenses or pursuits.

Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2351&Year=2025&Initiative=false