For Immediate Release: January 9, 2026

Olympia, WA – Today, on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, the Washington Council of Police & Sheriffs (WACOPS) announced the introduction of HB 2220, a no-cost recruitment and retention bill aimed at addressing Washington’s historic law enforcement staffing crisis by improving objectivity and consistency in the state’s peace officer certification system. The bill has been introduced and is scheduled for a public hearing on Thursday, January 15 at 8:00 AM in the House Public Safety Committee.

“Washington continues to face the worst law enforcement staffing crisis in the nation – ranking 51^st in officers per capita for 15 years straight. At current staffing levels, we simply do not have enough officers to provide the level of service and safety the public expects and deserves,” said Chris Tracy, President of WACOPS. “The unintended consequences of recent reforms are driving experienced officers away and discouraging new recruits. That’s why WACOPS is proud to work with our state’s elected officials to introduce HB 2220, which will help rebuild our workforce by restoring clarity and consistency for those who serve.”

HB 2220 focuses on recruitment and retention by making targeted adjustments to the state’s law enforcement certification framework. Consistent with other licensed professions, the proposal reimplements a “clear and convincing” evidence standard for decertification decisions and updates the composition of officer decertification panels to appropriately represent firsthand experience. These changes reinforce accountability and assure commissioned officers that career-impacting decision making is held to an equally high standard.

“Accountability and objectiveness must go hand-in-hand to build community trust and retain professionals in public safety,” said Rep. Mari Leavitt (D-University Place), Prime Sponsor of HB 2220. “Adjusting to an appropriate standard of proof and balanced decision-making will help us keep good officers on the job and encourage new applicants to join the profession. By ensuring folks are getting required training, it helps to build community trust. That’s how we create a better, safer Washington for everyone.”

WACOPS remains committed to meaningful collaboration that improves both public safety and the law enforcement profession. This proposal reflects that commitment by advancing practical, responsible solutions to rebuild appropriate staffing levels, support high standards, and serve communities across Washington. WACOPS looks forward to working with lawmakers, community leaders, and public safety stakeholders throughout the 2026 session to move this critical legislation forward.

Additional information about HB 2220 is available in WACOPS’ fact sheet, which can be viewed here.

For details on how to participate in the House Public Safety Committee hearing on Thursday, January 15 at 8:00 AM, please click here.

Call to Action

WACOPS needs your help to support this bill, today! Please share the information above with your friends, family, and neighbors and encourage them to engage in the legislative process by signing in PRO for HB 2220. All WACOPS members are asked to take the few minutes to sign in of support of this bill. You do not need to wait until the scheduled hearing.

How to State Your Position on a Bill Without Testifying: Click Here and follow the directions below.

1. Choose the committee (Community Safety) and meeting date and time (1/15/26 at 8:00 AM), then choose the bill for which you would like to register (HB 2220).

2. Choose “I would like my position noted for the legislative record.” Registration will close 1 hour before the start time of the meeting.

3. Enter your registration information. Your registered position will be made available to legislative members and staff of the committee, and will be included in the legislative record.

Watch the 1/15/26 8am Hearing: https://tvw.org/video/house-community-safety-2026011214/?eventID=2026011214