WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1969

Concerning the law enforcement aviation support grant program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Andrew Barkis and 14 co-sponsors

Washington HB 1969 creates a state grant program to help law enforcement agencies fund and maintain aviation assets for operations and emergency response.

By resolution, returned to House Rules Committee for third reading.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1969

Legislative bill overview

HB 1969 establishes a law enforcement aviation support grant program in Washington State. The bill would create a funding mechanism to help local law enforcement agencies obtain and maintain aviation resources for operational purposes.

Why is this important

Aviation assets significantly expand law enforcement's operational capabilities for search and rescue, surveillance, emergency response, and pursuit operations. However, these resources are expensive to acquire and maintain, making them inaccessible to many smaller or rural agencies without dedicated funding support.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and funding source: The bill's cost and whether general revenues or dedicated sources will fund the grant program remains a key question for budget-conscious legislators
  • Distribution equity: Determining how grants are allocated between urban, suburban, and rural agencies, and whether smaller departments have realistic access to competitive grant processes
  • Accountability and oversight: Questions about how the state will monitor grant spending, prevent duplication of resources across jurisdictions, and ensure effective use of public funds

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

Sign in to ask a question.