Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5040

Introduced
1/13/25  
Refer
1/13/25  
Report Pass
2/11/25  
Engrossed
2/25/25  
Refer
2/27/25  
Report Pass
3/21/25  
Refer
3/25/25  
Report Pass
4/7/25  
Refer
4/8/25  
Enrolled
4/17/25  
Chaptered
4/22/25  

Caption

Revised for 1st Substitute: Expanding the definition of uniformed personnel to all law enforcement officers employed by a city, town, county, or governing body of a municipal airport operating under the provisions of chapter 14.08 RCW.

Impact

The potential impact of SB5040 on state laws is significant, as it would ensure that all local law enforcement officers receive the same level of recognition and benefits that are currently available only to certain defined categories of uniformed personnel. This could lead to enhanced support and resources for local law enforcement agencies, facilitating better coordination and response mechanisms when dealing with matters involving law enforcement personnel statewide. Furthermore, this change in definition could streamline the operation of state programs and funding that support law enforcement activities and personnel.

Summary

Senate Bill 5040 seeks to expand the definition of 'uniformed personnel' to encompass all law enforcement officers employed by a city, town, or county. This legislative proposal aims to provide a broader framework for how law enforcement entities are categorized within state law. By explicitly including all local law enforcement officers under this designation, the bill intends to standardize recognition and support mechanisms for these personnel across various jurisdictions within the state.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SB5040 represents a significant evolution in recognizing the roles of local law enforcement officers within the state's legal framework. While designed to foster greater support and uniformity across law enforcement agencies, the bill also raises important questions regarding resource allocation and the operational capacity of local governments to meet any new standards established by this legislative change.

Contention

One notable aspect of contention regarding SB5040 is the debate surrounding the adequacy and implications of the resources allocated for the enforcement and support of all law enforcement personnel once included under this expanded definition. Critics may argue that while the intent is to unify law enforcement personnel under a common definition, there may be budgetary constraints and insufficient funding to adequately support this broader classification. Additionally, there could be concerns among smaller municipalities about the fiscal burden that would accompany the expanded responsibilities or expectations placed on them by the state.

Companion Bills

WA HB1045

Crossfiled Expanding the definition of uniformed personnel to all law enforcement officers employed by a city, town, or county.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5579

Revised for 1st Substitute: Expanding the department of ecology's authority to refrain from enforcing certain provisions of chapter 70A.60 RCW to mitigate the effects of supply chain problems or other similar disruptions.Original: Expanding the department of ecology's authority to refrain from enforcing chapter 70A.60 RCW to mitigate the effects of supply chain problems or other similar disruptions.

WA SB5361

Incentivizing cities and counties to increase employment of commissioned law enforcement officers.

WA HB1446

Incentivizing cities and counties to increase employment of commissioned law enforcement officers.

WA HB1530

Expanding eligibility for employment of certain law enforcement and prosecutor office positions.

WA SB6169

Increasing the potential pool of law enforcement hires by allowing active and retired law enforcement and military personnel to import certain firearms for personal use.

WA SB5751

Modifying the definition of nonhighway vehicle for the purposes of chapter 46.09 RCW.

WA SB6198

Concerning employees of the law enforcement officers' and firefighters' plan 2 retirement board.

WA SB5418

Expanding the definition of public work.

WA HB1804

Concerning eligibility for participation in the public employees' benefits board for retired or disabled employees of counties, municipalities, and other political subdivisions.

WA HB2337

Concerning employees of the law enforcement officers' and firefighters' plan 2 retirement board.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.