Press Conference Scheduled

Chelan County Sheriff(CCSD) - Washington State Sheriffs’ Association (WSSA) Whatcom County Sheriff Bill Elfo announced today that Sheriffs from across the State will meet in Olympia to lobby the Legislature on WSSA priority issues and meet with members of the media on Tuesday, February 5.    The press conference is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on the steps at the North Side of the Legislative Building.

Major issues of concern to WSSA this Legislative Session are House Bill 2624 and Senate Bill 6524 which would authorize tribal police officers to act as general authority Washington State peace officers;  HB 1030, enhancing the sentences of persons attempting to elude a police officer; and, numerous bills that deal with sex offenders. 

The eluding bill has been a top priority of WSSA, several cities, and county associations for the past three sessions and advocates are confident that this year they can secure its passage.

Sheriffs have also shown strong support for legislation which will expand registration of sex offenders and notification to the community; the reclassification of some offenses; and provide funding to local governments to assist in address verification and notification.  

 Sheriff Elfo says, “Many sheriffs have commissioned tribal officers but WSSA has adopted a resolution opposed the tribal law enforcement proposal.“  He and other have testified against it.  They have raised questions about the Doctrine of Sovereign Immunity; the lack of accountability for officers; and, the lack of reciprocity between counties and tribes.  

For additional information, please call the Washington Association of County Officials at (360) 753-7319 or e-mail .