HB 2351, which would limit external interference with active emergency operations, was voted out of its House committee. The committee removed some problematic administrative requirements for local governments.

The amended version of the bill prohibits cities from aiding federal investigations into emergency response personnel that are based on immigration, race, religion, or nationality, with exceptions for court orders and several other situations.

AWC is grateful to the bill sponsor for several improved bill revisions, including the removal of a requirement for every city agency to review and certify its policies.

Before the House takes a vote on the bill, AWC is requesting a change to require the state to provide a model policy for the review of court orders to standardize cities’ compliance.

New emergency responder bill mandates citywide policy reviews

January 16, 2025

HB 2351, sponsored by Rep. Lisa Parshley (D–Olympia), seeks to shield emergency responders from outside interference while responding to an active event. In a House committee hearing, Rep. Parshley said the legislation was inspired by a federal immigration raid on a crew battling the Bear Gulch Fire in August.

The bill prohibits local authorities from assisting enforcement actions against emergency responders and creates new limitations on interfering with response work in an emergency operations zone designated by local or state government.

AWC testified in the hearing that the bill contains a troubling administrative burden for cities. The bill requires “all agencies of cities or towns” to review and certify policies to ensure emergency responders’ birthplace or immigration status cannot be disclosed, requested, or factored into public services for responders.

AWC has requested this requirement be removed before the bill advances.

Dates to remember

HB 2351 is scheduled for a committee vote in the House Technology, Economic Development, & Veterans Committee on Friday, January 23, at 10:30 am.