DAVE PAUL: Working to Improve Public Safety
State Representative Dave Paul (D-Oak Harbor) sent this email to constituents from his legislative account on Sat., May 7, 2022.
Dear Friends and neighbors,
Everyone deserves to feel safe in their community. That’s why I’ve been working alongside law enforcement officials, constituents, and local leaders to improve public safety throughout our region and Washington state.
Here’s an overview of some of what we’ve accomplished:
Recruitment and Retention of Public Safety Officers
We face a looming workforce shortage of law enforcement personnel as many police officers and deputies near retirement. To help with this problem, the Legislature increased funding in 2021 and 2022 for the state’s law enforcement academy, and this new funding has already helped to ensure new officers are safeguarding our communities and our state.
Compensation is a critical component to retaining public safety officers. At the state level, I cosponsored House Bill 1785, which will help ensure Washington State Troopers are paid a competitive wage for their dangerous work.
911 First Responders
It’s shocking that 911 operators are treated as clerical personnel in our state, and it’s beyond time to recognize them as first responders — because that’s exactly what they are. Senate Bill 5555 will bring together experts to create best practices for hiring, retaining, and supporting these critical first responders. The bill will also give 911 operators the training and tools they need to best help the public in times of crisis, making our communities safer.
In addition, House Bill 1703, will modernize the 911 emergency system and help counties with developing regional approaches to handling emergency calls.
Common-Sense Policing Reforms
The Legislature passed major legislation in 2021 to promote de-escalation during police interactions with the public. After concerns were raised about what police could and couldn’t do in some emergencies, I worked closely with local law enforcement officials and state leaders on potential fixes. House Bill 1735 better defines de-escalation tactics—while also ensuring peace officers can respond to requests for assistance when an individual is having a mental health crisis.
Addressing Mental Health and Addiction
Our local law enforcement agencies also improve public safety by ensuring that community members who are experiencing a mental health, addiction, or housing crisis quickly receive the appropriate help.
The Legislature made significant investments in these areas in 2022, including funding for mental health beds, addiction recovery treatment programs, and housing so that putting people in jail is not our only alternative for preventing self-harm. I’ll continue to work with local leaders to help law enforcement agencies have embedded mental health counselors and social workers to partner with police officers when assisting an individual in crisis.
These bills will go a long way towards improving public safety in our state so families and small businesses can thrive. As always, thank you for your feedback, input, and support. While we have made great strides in public safety policy, we will continue to work on this priority throughout the interim and future legislative sessions. Please reach out to my office if you have any feedback or questions.
It is an honor to serve as your representative.
Sincerely,
Dave Paul
