OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington State House Committee on Community Safety has voted to advance a bill that would allow foreign nationals to become law enforcement officers, deputy prosecutors and firefighters.
Supporters of Senate Bill 5068 say this change could help fill vacant jobs. However, critics on the committee and individuals testifying have expressed concerns that it could lead to problems.
Aside from expanding job eligibility for foreign nationals, the bill also protects public agencies from state discrimination claims if they reject an applicant due to visa limitations. It specifies that all candidates must meet federal work rules and includes amendments on firearms policies and background checks for applicants.
Despite these amendments, some argue that the bill compromises the background check process and potentially puts public agencies at risk of unknowingly hiring someone with extremist connections.
If the bill passes, it has an emergency clause and will take effect immediately.
