BILL REQ. #:  H-1081.1 

Read first time 02/05/13.   Referred to Committee on Judiciary.

     AN ACT Relating to peace officers; and adding a new section to chapter 4.24 RCW.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 4.24 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) No peace officer acting reasonably, considering the totality of the incident from the perspective of a reasonable officer, in the course of his or her duties may be held civilly or criminally liable nor shall the city, county, state, or agency employing the officer. This immunity includes, but is not limited to, the use of a less lethal weapon.
     (2) For the purposes of this section, "less lethal weapon" means any device that is designed to or that has been converted to expel or propel less lethal ammunition by any action, mechanism, or process for the purpose of incapacitating, immobilizing, or stunning a human being through the infliction of any less than lethal impairment of physical condition, function, or senses, including physical pain or discomfort. It is not necessary that a weapon leave any lasting or permanent incapacitation, discomfort, pain, or other injury or disability in order to qualify as a less lethal weapon.