In Olympia, lawmakers are deeply divided on the issue of public safety. Rep. David Hackney, D-Renton, a former federal prosecutor, emphasizes the impact of under-policing on communities of color, noting that crime, rather than police, is a bigger concern for his constituents. Hackney helped form the Public Safety Caucus to support accountability for lawbreakers and advocates for stronger law enforcement.
Rep. Roger Goodman, D-Kirkland, chairs the Community Safety, Justice & Reentry Committee and champions a more rehabilitative approach. He emphasizes evidence-based reforms to the criminal justice system, focusing on minimizing trauma and enhancing community safety through decriminalization and diversion programs.
Both lawmakers have different views shaped by the communities they represent. Hackney’s district in Renton experiences higher levels of gun violence, while Goodman’s district in Kirkland reports fewer crime incidents. Their differing philosophies highlight the challenge of achieving consensus in Olympia, as Hackney pushes for tougher measures while Goodman advocates for a more compassionate approach.
As the public safety debate continues, these contrasting perspectives will shape the legislative agenda in the upcoming session, with proposals ranging from drug treatment accountability to police pursuit laws. Both Hackney and Goodman remain unopposed in their re-election bids, signaling continued influence in these discussions.
WR has been on the front lines as retailer’s tackle the challenges of retail theft in their stores, impacting employees and consumers alike. We agree that public safety is not a one-size-fits-all solution and that legislative action is necessary. To address the growing issue of Organized Retail Crime (ORC), collaboration between the public and private sectors will continue to be essential. That’s why WR, in partnership with Challenge Seattle and WAORCA, developed the Organized Retail Crime Resource Hub. This platform provides retailers, law enforcement, and policymakers with best practices, tools, and resources to strengthen efforts in combating ORC. As debates on public safety continue, WR remains committed to fostering collaboration and delivering practical solutions to protect Washington’s retailers.
