House passes revised bill giving commission power to decertify sheriffs after appeal process

Summary

After hours of debate and dozens of amendment votes, the Washington House approved a revised version of second substitute Senate Bill 5974 to set uniform eligibility and certification rules for sheriffs and other law-enforcement leaders, while clarifying that decertification would trigger a vacancy only after final appeal, 54-42.

The Washington House late on a floor session approved a revised version of second substitute Senate Bill 5974, a controversial measure that sets new eligibility and certification rules for sheriffs and creates a route for the Criminal Justice Training Commission to decertify law-enforcement executives. The bill passed after sustained debate and a series of amendments, with a final vote of 54 yeas to 42 nays.

Supporters said the package strengthens oversight and clarifies how volunteers, specially commissioned officers and youth cadets can be used by local agencies. "This is a comprehensive bill, and I really do encourage its passage," Representative Goodman said in closing remarks as the House adopted the striking amendment and advanced the bill to final passage.

Opponents warned the bill gives an unelected…

House passes revised bill giving commission power to decertify sheriffs after appeal process

Summary

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