Image: King5.com
Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison recently reported on the impact of public safety legislation adopted since early 2024. The Seattle City Council has passed 24 measures addressing issues such as open drug use, prostitution, and illegal street racing.
Among them is the Stay Out of Drug Areas law, which allows courts to restrict individuals convicted of drug-related crimes from entering designated neighborhoods. Since its passage in August 2024, 115 orders have been issued, with the most concentrated in Capitol Hill, the Chinatown-International District, and downtown.
To address prostitution concerns, the council also enacted a loitering law focused on buyers of commercial sex. This has resulted in 32 orders to date, primarily against those seeking to purchase sex.
Illegal street racing, another major concern, has been met with civil infractions ranging from $500 to $1,500 depending on repeat offenses. Nineteen infractions have been issued since July 2024, with most cases resolved at the first offense level.
City leaders say early results show progress, while ongoing discussions, including the upcoming 2026 budget process, will guide next steps in strengthening public safety efforts.
