OLYMPIA — The Washington state Senate has approved a bill that would set stricter standards for sheriffs and police chiefs — and create a pathway to remove elected sheriffs who don’t meet them.
The measure passed Thursday on a 30-to-19 party-line vote, with Democrats in support and Republicans opposed. It now heads to the House.
Supporters say the bill strengthens accountability and public trust in law enforcement. The sponsor, Sen. John Lovick, a former sheriff, says no one who fails to uphold the law should be allowed to enforce it.
Republicans argue the proposal overrides voters, saying if voters elect a sheriff, only voters should remove one.
The bill would require sheriffs and chiefs to be at least 25 years old and have five years of law enforcement experience. It would also require them to maintain state certification. If a sheriff is decertified, the office would be declared vacant.
The legislation would also limit the role of volunteer posses, barring untrained volunteers from enforcing criminal or immigration laws or using force.
If approved, most of the changes would take effect this spring.