Criminal Justice (Policing · Civil Liberties)

SB 5066 would authorize Washington's attorney general to investigate and sue local law enforcement agencies (like city police departments) and local corrections agencies (like county jails) for violating constitutional or civil rights. It creates new procedures allowing the attorney general to issue demands for documents, conduct investigations, and seek court orders for systemic reforms - such as improved training or policies - to address misconduct patterns. The bill requires agencies to meet compliance timelines for fixes and prohibits the attorney general from pursuing actions that conflict with ongoing federal investigations. This bill does not apply to state agencies (e.g., Washington State Patrol) or hold individual officers liable for misconduct. The bill was referred to the Senate Ways & Means Committee in February 2025 but has not advanced further.