Today's Question:
From your perspective, what do you see as the most challenging public safety issue in Camas today?
Leslie responds:
On May 18, 2021, Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed a police accountability legislative package which included 12 House and Senate bills that have law enforcement considerations. This package included HB1054, HB1088, HB1089, HB 1140, HB 1214, HB 1223, HB 1267, HB 1310, HB 1320, SB 5051, SB 5055 and SB 5066.
The new legislation requires that police must have probable cause that a crime is being or has been committed before they can use any type of force on possible suspects, people in crisis, or conduct a vehicle pursuit in certain circumstances. These changes mean police may no longer respond to certain calls for service, depending on whether a crime has been committed, and may affect what an officer will be able to do when responding to a variety of public safety situations.
The dangerous impacts to our community as a result of these new laws cannot be understated. As a Camas City Councilor, I will work directly with our police department to clearly and effectively communicate what these new laws mean for our citizens. I will work with our guild to develop budgets that allow us financial flexibility to recruit, hire and retain the best police force with sufficient numbers to adequately serve our city. In the face of these new, challenging laws, it is vital for local governments to work collaboratively and openly with our local police unions to ensure police departments have all the tools, resources, training and support they need to effectively protect the citizens we all have sworn to serve.
Thanks for the question. If you have a question, just send me a note at leslieforcamas@gmail.com.
- Leslie
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