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Bill > SB6101


WA SB6101

WA SB6101
Requiring coroners to be appointed rather than elected.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT Relating to saving taxpayer money by requiring coroners to 2 be appointed rather than elected; amending RCW 36.16.030, 43.101.480, 3 36.16.050, 36.17.020, and 36.24.205; creating a new section; and 4 declaring an emergency. 5

AI Summary

This bill mandates that county coroners, who investigate unexpected deaths and provide public safety and health services, must be appointed by county legislative authorities rather than elected, aiming to save taxpayer money by ending partisan elections for a non-political position and increasing accountability. The bill amends existing laws to remove the requirement for electing a coroner in most counties, stipulating that if a county currently has an elected coroner, they can finish their term before an appointment is made, and it also updates training requirements for appointed coroners and medical examiners to ensure they possess necessary technical, medical, and legal investigative skills. Additionally, the bill adjusts bond and salary provisions for county officials, including coroners, to reflect the change from elected to appointed positions.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (3)

Last Action

Executive session scheduled, but no action was taken in the Senate Committee on Local Government at 1:30 PM. (on 01/22/2026)

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