Title
Update on the Implementation of Police Reform Legislation Concerning Use of Force by Law Enforcement and Correctional Officers
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive an update regarding changes the Olympia Police Department is making in response to Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill (ESSHB) 1310, Engrossed Substitute House Bill (ESHB) 1054 and Substitute Senate Bill (SSB) 5066 concerning permissible uses of force by law enforcement and correctional officers, tactics and duty to intervene.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive an update on changes the Olympia Police Department is making in response to ESSHB 1310, ESHB 1054 and SSB 5066 concerning permissible uses of force by law enforcement and correctional officers, tactics and duty to intervene.
Staff Contact:
Aaron Jelcick, Interim Police Chief, Olympia Police Department, 360.753.8255
Presenter(s):
Aaron Jelcick, Interim Police Chief, Olympia Police Department
Background and Analysis:
In 2021, the Washington State legislature passed ESSHB 1310 to clarify the law on police use of force and discriminatory policing. Under this law, police and correctional officers must act with reasonable care when carrying out their duties. The Bill also addresses public safety concerns by limiting the use of deadly force to very narrow circumstances.
In addition, the legislature passed ESHB 1054 and SSB 5066 to establish requirements for police tactics and equipment and excessive force intervention.
Interim Police Chief Jelcick will provide an overview of the new laws and review changes the Olympia Police Department is making in response to the legislation.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The community has expressed interest in police reform.
Options:
1. Receive the report.
2. Do not receive the report.
3. Receive the report at another time.
Financial Impact:
As of July 13, the Department spent 311 staff hours or $26,505.68 reviewing and updating its policies. The Department will also need to pay for officer training and additional less-lethal equipment. The cost is still be analyzed.
Attachments:
None.