Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2133

Introduced
1/8/24  

Caption

Designating trespassing on a public school bus as a felony offense.

Impact

The proposed legislation could significantly impact existing state laws by imposing stricter penalties for individuals who unlawfully enter school buses. This change is intended to reinforce the authority of school districts in maintaining a secure environment for students during transit. The discussions around the bill have highlighted potential repercussions on judicial processes and the penal system regarding the classification of offenses, as well as the broader implications for public safety legislation related to educational institutions.

Summary

House Bill 2133 aims to designate trespassing on a public school bus as a felony offense. This legislative move is a response to growing concerns about the safety of students and staff on school transportation. The bill reflects an effort to enhance protection measures within the educational system, particularly in a setting where vulnerable populations, such as children, may be at risk. By classifying this offense as a felony, the bill underscores the seriousness of unauthorized entry onto school buses and aims to deter such behavior.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2133 appears to be largely positive among legislators advocating for increased safety measures in schools. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to ensure the well-being of students and create a supportive learning environment. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications of labeling trespassing as a felony, such as disproportionate impacts on certain demographics or unintended consequences within the community. The debate reflects a balancing act between prioritizing safety and considering the broader impacts of harsh penalties.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential for over-criminalization and the appropriateness of harsh penalties for offenses that may arise out of benign circumstances. Opponents may raise issues related to the fairness of imposing felony charges for trespassing, exploring how such a designation could lead to long-term consequences for individuals and whether it supports the overall goal of enhancing school safety. Discussions may also touch upon alternative measures that could achieve similar safety goals without resorting to strict felony classifications.

Companion Bills

WA SB5891

Crossfiled Revised for Engrossed: Protecting the safety and security of students and maintaining order within school buses by designating trespassing on a school bus as a criminal offense.Revised for 1st Substitute: Designating trespassing on a school bus as a felony offense.Original: Designating trespassing on a public school bus as a felony offense.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5891

Revised for Engrossed: Protecting the safety and security of students and maintaining order within school buses by designating trespassing on a school bus as a criminal offense.Revised for 1st Substitute: Designating trespassing on a school bus as a felony offense.Original: Designating trespassing on a public school bus as a felony offense.

WA HB2504

Concerning sentencing of felony offenses.

WA LB1156

Require registration under the Sex Offender Registration Act for certain solicitation and trafficking offenses

WA LB20

Provide for restoration of voting rights upon completion of a felony sentence or probation for a felony

WA HB1180

Implementing certain recommendations from the sex offender policy board concerning the criminal offense of failure to register.

WA SB5797

Enacting a tax on stocks, bonds, and other financial intangible assets for the benefit of public schools.

WA SB6063

Modifying the definition of persistent offender to exclude convictions for offenses committed by someone under the age of 18 and providing for resentencing.

WA HB2154

Modifying the definition of persistent offender to exclude convictions for offenses committed by someone under the age of 18 and providing for resentencing.

WA SB5554

Concerning historic landmark designations.

WA HB1977

Designating Tenino sandstone as the state rock.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.