A Thurston County Superior Court judge has permanently blocked key provisions of a Washington law establishing new eligibility requirements for county sheriffs, ruling the measures unconstitutional. The state attorney general’s office plans to appeal.
Judge Christine Schaller issued the ruling on October 2 in response to lawsuits filed by sheriffs challenging SB 5974, which lawmakers passed in 2026 and Gov. Bob Ferguson signed into law. Schaller had temporarily blocked much of the legislation in April, allowing sheriff elections to proceed without the new requirements.
The law sought to establish minimum qualifications for sheriffs, who are generally elected, similar to those required of appointed police chiefs. Blocked provisions included requirements that sheriffs have at least five years of law enforcement experience, be at least 25 years old, have no felony or gross misdemeanor convictions, and have no history of conduct that could result in the loss of state law enforcement certification. The law also required background checks and allowed for the appointment of replacements if sheriffs were removed from office.
Supporters argued the standards would strengthen public trust, accountability, and professional qualifications among law enforcement leaders. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Valore said the Legislature intended to ensure sheriffs met basic qualifications comparable to those of other law enforcement officials.
Opponents, including the Washington State Sheriffs’ Association and individual county sheriffs, argued the law represented state overreach and could undermine voters’ authority to elect their preferred candidates. Walla Walla County Sheriff Mark Crider said the ruling addressed concerns that the requirements would interfere with voters’ choices.
Anne Levinson, a retired judge who helped draft the legislation, expressed concern that blocking the standards could allow law enforcement leaders who committed serious misconduct to remain in office, potentially harming the public and vulnerable individuals.
The ruling does not appear to affect other provisions concerning police chief standards and the use of law enforcement volunteers. The state’s appeal could determine whether the blocked sheriff requirements are ultimately reinstated.
