SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6366

BYSenators Pullen, Hansen, Kreidler, Halsan, Madsen, Smith, Newhouse, Nelson, Hayner, Talmadge, McCaslin and West

Creating the state law enforcement medal of honor.

Senate Committee on Law & Justice

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Pullen, Chairman; McCaslin, Vice Chairman; Halsan, Hayner, Madsen, Nelson, Niemi, Talmadge.

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 18, 1988; January 19, 1988

Senate Staff:Jeanne Cushman Scott (786-7461)

                  February 3, 1988

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 3, 1988

BACKGROUND:

Each year there are law enforcement officers who distinguish themselves by exceptionally meritorious conduct while in performance of duty.  Several law enforcement agencies recognize meritorious conduct at the agency level, however, there exists no statewide system of recognition.

Proponents of this legislation are of the opinion that police officers who distinguish themselves in the line of duty are deserving of statewide recognition.

SUMMARY:

A state law enforcement medal of honor is established to be awarded annually by a state nominating committee to law enforcement officers who have been seriously injured or killed while in the performance of duty, or who have been distinguished by exceptionally meritorious conduct.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Ken Johnson, Washington State Law Enforcement Association, Inc.