House passes bill giving police greater ability to undertake pursuits
OLYMPIA — A controversial bill giving police greater discretion to undertake pursuits narrowly passed the House early Tuesday, unwinding a central piece of policing reform passed two years ago.
The measure, Senate Bill 5352, allows a law enforcement officer to initiate a chase with reasonable suspicion a person in a vehicle has committed or is committing a crime. Current law sets a higher threshold of probable cause in order to engage in a pursuit.
It passed 57-40, with 38 Democrats and 19 Republicans in support. Meanwhile, 19 Democrats and 21 Republicans opposed. Every member of Snohomish County’s delegation voted for the bill except one, Rep. Lillian Ortiz-Self, D-Mukilteo, who was excused.
“I understand the community’s concerns. I think this strikes a reasonable balance for pursuing criminals and keeping people safe on the street,” said Rep. Strom Peterson, D-Edmonds.
https://www.heraldnet.com/news/house-passes-bill-giving-police-greater-ability-to-undertake-pursuits/