WashingtonHB 25082025-2026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

Clarifying the scope of authority of the office of independent investigations to align with current operations and practices and to include public disclosure requirements and protect privacy.

Sponsored By: Debra Entenman (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Independent investigators control outside teams’ roles

Beginning June 11, 2026, teams acting at Washington’s Office of Independent Investigations’ request must surrender control when the Office takes over. Teams may help only with tasks requested by the lead investigator, director, or designee. Their work ends after scene security, evidence protection, or other steps the Office finds necessary. They cannot keep participating in the ongoing investigation.

More independent reviews of force-related deaths

Beginning June 11, 2026, Washington’s Office of Independent Investigations can investigate deaths linked to force other than deadly force. This includes later deaths when force may have caused or contributed to the death, directly or indirectly. The rules cover police officers and specified adult or juvenile corrections and detention staff. They apply on duty, or off duty while exercising police authority or using duty-issued equipment. The Office can also review previously investigated incidents when new evidence was not included in the first investigation. Agencies must notify the Office as soon as they have good reason to believe non-deadly force contributed to a death. For qualifying deadly-force incidents, immediate notice is required after scene safety and lifesaving aid.

More evidence access, tighter privacy rules

Beginning June 11, 2026, responding fire departments and ambulance services must give Washington’s independent investigators relevant reports and information. Health information requires consent from the patient or next of kin, or a court order. Covered Office investigation records are confidential and unavailable for public inspection or copying until referral to a prosecutor. The prosecutor then decides whether to bring criminal charges. Other related Office records are protected only to the extent they contain private personal information, including support-service details.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Debra Entenman
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Beth Doglio
Democratic • House
Brian Burnett
Republican • House
Chipalo Street
Democratic • House
Chris Stearns
Democratic • House
Gerry Pollet
Democratic • House
Julia Reed
Democratic • House
Kristine Reeves
Democratic • House
Lisa Parshley
Democratic • House
Natasha Hill
Democratic • House
Roger Goodman
Democratic • House
Sharlett Mena
Democratic • House
Shelley Kloba
Democratic • House
Steve Bergquist
Democratic • House
Timm Ormsby
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 134 • No: 10

Senate vote • 3/4/2026

3rd Reading & Final Passage

Yes: 44 • No: 4 • Other: 1

House vote • 2/16/2026