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Bill

HB 1815

Concerning prison riot offenses.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Roger Goodman and 1 co-sponsor

Washington establishes new criminal penalties for organizing, inciting, or participating in prison riots, effective immediately upon governor's signature in April 2025.

Effective date 4/25/2025.
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Bill Summary · HB 1815

Legislative bill overview

HB 1815 establishes new criminal offense statutes specifically addressing prison riots and related disturbances in Washington state. The bill creates legal definitions and penalties for participation in, incitement of, or coordination of riots within correctional facilities, distinguishing these offenses from general riot law.

Why is this important

Prison riots pose serious risks to inmate and staff safety, facility security, and operational continuity. This legislation provides prosecutors with specialized legal tools to address coordinated disturbances within correctional settings, potentially enabling more targeted enforcement and deterrence compared to applying general riot statutes to custodial environments.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional scope: Questions about how "prison riot" is defined may create ambiguity around what constitutes a prosecutable offense versus legitimate protest or resistance to unsafe conditions
  • Sentencing severity: Whether the penalties are proportionate and whether they risk disproportionately affecting incarcerated individuals with limited agency in volatile situations
  • Due process concerns: How the law distinguishes between active participants, bystanders caught in unrest, and those with minimal involvement, given the chaotic nature of such incidents

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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