SB 6161-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Finds it is appropriate to help reduce the incident rate of domestic violence by addressing the need for improved coordination and accountability among general authority Washington law enforcement agencies and general authority Washington peace officers when reports of domestic violence are made and the alleged perpetrator is a general authority Washington peace officer.

Finds that coordination and accountability will be improved if general authority Washington law enforcement agencies adopt policies that meet statewide minimum requirements for training, reporting, interagency cooperation, investigation, and collaboration with groups serving victims of domestic violence.

Provides that by December 1, 2004, the association shall develop a written model policy on domestic violence committed or allegedly committed by sworn employees of agencies. In developing the policy, the association shall convene a work group consisting of representatives from the designated entities and professions.

Provides that the model policy shall provide due process for employees and, at a minimum, meet the designated standards.

Requires that, by June 1, 2005, every agency shall adopt and implement a written policy on domestic violence committed or allegedly committed by sworn employees of the agency that meet the minimum standards specified in this act.

Requires that except as provided in this act, not later than June 30, 2006, every sworn employee of an agency shall be trained by the agency on the agency's policy required under this act.

Requires that sworn employees hired by an agency on or after March 1, 2006, shall, within six months of beginning employment, be trained by the agency on the agency's policy required under this act.

Provides that, by June 1, 2005, every agency shall provide a copy of its policy developed under this act to the association and shall provide a statement notifying the association of whether the agency has complied with the training required under this act.

Directs the association to maintain a copy of each agency's policy and to provide to the governor and legislature not later than January 1, 2006, a list of those agencies that have not developed and submitted policies and those agencies that have not stated their compliance with the training required under this act.