ACTION ALERT: Empower the AG to File Charges for Excessive Force

Take action before 1:30pm on Tuesday, February 16. Tell your lawmaker: When the police kill someone, the AG’s office should have the authority to file charges. Police can’t charge and investigate police. Accountability, NOW.

What It Is

HB 1507 would allow the state Attorney General (AG) to establish a standard in police use of force cases. When a law enforcement officer kills someone, both the local prosecutor and the AG's office will have the authority to file charges—and the AG’s office will maintain an independent prosecution team. If both a local prosecutor and the AG's office want to file charges, they can file a motion with the court. If either the local prosecutor or the independent deputy prosecutor decline to file charges, it goes to the AG to consider. If the AG declines, they must publish a report explaining why.

Take Action

Submit written testimony in support of this bill. Let the committee know where you live in Washington state, and that this bill is important to you. Ask them to vote for this bill. If you have a personal story, share it with them. Written testimony is due before 1:30pm on Tuesday, February 16.

Not sure how to submit written testimony?

Watch the video starting at 17:50 to learn about House Bill 1507 and get step-by-step instructions.