OLYMPIA – Additional support for correctional employees was signed into law today with the Governor’s approval of Rep. Tami Green’s (D-Lakewood) House Bill 1041.
“This is a step forward in protecting our correctional employees,” Green said. “Like law enforcement officers, correctional employees should have the right to protect themselves outside the prison gates.”
Green’s House Bill 1041 allows correctional personnel and community corrections officers who have completed government-sponsored law enforcement firearms training to be exempt from certain firearm restrictions.
As shown in recent tragedies, the level of violence in correctional facilities remains an issue. In addition, correctional personnel receive many threats, and they are at risk of retaliation from former inmates when off-duty.
For additional details on House Bill 1041, please click here.