Legislature poised to bring sweeping police reforms to Washington
Seattle police at a protest. (Photo: Jason Rantz)
Washington state is no stranger to calls for police reforms.
It’s what was behind the years-long effort that culminated in 2019 with voters overwhelmingly approving I-940, Washington’s new police accountability law that, among other things, required more training for officers and fully independent investigations in use of force cases.
When it was passed, it was largely hailed a victory for families of those killed by police. But when the law took effect, it was clear something was missing: Someone to ensure police agencies were actually following the new rules. As it turns out some were not, such as the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department which, despite having had a deputy at the scene of the Tacoma Police Department’s in custody killing of Manny Ellis last year, still took on the “independent investigation” – which is not allowed under I-940.
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Gun control groups have their agendas set for 2021. (Getty Images)
Dealing with the pandemic, police accountability, and issues surrounding systemic racism and equality are expected to take up much of the focus of this upcoming legislative session. But we can expect some of the more familiar debates as well, including gun safety measures.
“You know, our 2021 agenda really reflects the many challenges and lessons of 2020 particularly COVID historic calls for police accountability and the armed intimidation. It also really reflects an understanding that our lawmakers have an incredibly tough job ahead,” said Renee Hopkins, Executive Director of Washington’s Alliance for Gun Responsibility.