OLYMPIA, Wash. – Two bills focusing on law enforcement transparency and due process have been introduced by the Washington State Legislature.
House Bill 2644, known as The Law Enforcement Body Worn Camera Act, proposes a statewide standard mandating all law enforcement officers to use body worn cameras during encounters.
The bill also states that individuals involved in these interactions can request a copy of the recording for free.
House Bill 2643 addresses due process for officers placed on the Brady List, a record maintained by prosecutors of officers with credibility issues. The bill would allow officers to petition the superior court to review their placement on this list.
“I was proud to convene law enforcement, people who have suffered under police violence and formerly incarcerated people to put this package of legislation together,” Rep. Tarra Simmons (D-Bremerton) said in a release by Washington State House Democrats.
Jeff Anaya, president of the Washington State Fraternal Order of Police, expressed support for the bills. “These two bills reflect what is possible when community voices, lawmakers and law enforcement sit at the same table and work in good faith,” he said.
The Washington State Legislature is currently considering these bills, with the session set to conclude on March 12.
