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Bill

SB 5538

Concerning the removal of unauthorized persons.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Phil Fortunato

SB 5538 establishes procedures for removing unauthorized persons from Washington property, balancing property rights against potential due process and housing stability concerns.

First reading, referred to Law & Justice.
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Bill Summary · SB 5538

Legislative bill overview

SB 5538 addresses the legal process for removing unauthorized persons from property in Washington State. The bill, introduced by Senator Phil Fortunato, is currently in early stages of consideration within the Law & Justice committee. Specific provisions are not yet publicly detailed given its recent first reading status.

Why this is important

Property rights and removal procedures directly affect landlords, property managers, tenants, and homeless individuals. Clear legal frameworks for removal prevent vigilante actions while protecting legitimate property interests, but overly broad provisions could enable discriminatory evictions or create barriers for vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition of "unauthorized": How narrowly or broadly the bill defines who qualifies as unauthorized could significantly impact enforcement scope and potential for abuse
  • Due process protections: Balance between expedited removal processes and constitutional protections for individuals facing displacement
  • Intersections with housing law: How this interacts with existing tenant protections, eviction procedures, and homelessness response policies

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

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