Last fall, voters approved Initiative 940, which updates Washington’s statute on police use of deadly force. While I-940 was a great step forward in repairing the trust between the public and law enforcement, the initiative painted a solution in broad strokes and there are provisions that need to be more explicitly defined. Last session, I convened meetings of families, community groups and law enforcement to work together and agree to language to clarify and strengthen the initiative.
That agreed-upon language is reflected in House Bill 1064, which I am sponsoring this session, and I’m pleased to report it recently passed both the House and Senate on unanimous votes!
The question of police use of deadly force is a particularly contentious and controversial issue that has gripped the nation’s attention. In this national conversation, Washington state now serves as a model for the nation to improve police-community relations and enhance community safety. With the passage of House Bill 1064, we are building trust, making peace, and saving lives.
Learn more about the consensus language bill that is the culmination of years of collaboration between families, communities, law enforcement, and lawmakers, in this week’s GoodMinute.
As always, feel free to reach out if you have comments, questions, or ideas.
All best wishes,
Roger Goodman
Representative, 45th District
Washington State Legislature