Photo By Washington State Patrol
The Senate failed to act on SB 5060, a $100 million law enforcement grant program for local governments, before the bill cutoff. It remains uncertain whether the measure will be revived through amendments to the budget or other legislation during the remainder of the session.
WR strongly supports SB 5060. Washington state ranks last in the nation for law enforcement officers per capita, a position it has held for several years. As a result, police response times in many jurisdictions are slow, and in some cases, non-existent for property crimes like retail theft and organized retail crime.
WR is pleased that Governor Ferguson has prioritized SB 5060 and its funding. A strong public safety system requires investment in law enforcement, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and treatment programs to ensure our communities, and the places we work, and shop are safe and thriving.