HB 1519

Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS

Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness Committee

HB 1519

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Authorizing qualified liquor enforcement officers to enforce criminal laws.

Sponsors: Representatives Williams, O'Brien, Ericks, Rodne and Hudgins.

Brief Summary of Bill

Allows, under certain circumstances, liquor control officers to enforce all criminal laws.

Hearing Date: 2/7/07

Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).

Background:

Liquor Enforcement Officers

A variety of crimes exist with respect to alcoholic beverages. County and municipal peace officers may investigate liquor-related crimes. In addition, the Liquor Control Board employs liquor enforcement officers who have the power to enforce criminal laws relating to liquor and to arrest persons caught violating such laws.

The Criminal Justice Training Commission

The Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) provides basic law enforcement training to law enforcement personnel (public employees or volunteers whose primary function is the enforcement of criminal laws in general). The CJTC also issues and revokes certification for peace officers, including any law enforcement personnel required to complete basic law enforcement training, officers of the Washington State Patrol, and certain personnel employed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Summary of Bill:

A liquor enforcement officer may enforce any criminal law of the state if:

The violation occurs in the presence of the officer acting within the scope of his or her duties; and
The liquor enforcement officer has completed: (1) basic law enforcement training at the CJTC; or (2) a course that is (a) approved by the Liquor Control Board and the CJTC and (b) given by the Liquor Control Board or the CJTC.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 29, 2007.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.