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Bill

HB 1138

Improving public safety by implementing evidence-based interview practices that increase the reliability of statements collected during criminal investigations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by April Berg and 13 co-sponsors

Washington HB 1138 requires law enforcement to adopt scientifically-proven interview techniques that reduce false confessions and improve investigative reliability statewide.

Public hearing in the House Committee on Community Safety at 1:30 PM.
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Bill Summary · HB 1138

Legislative bill overview

HB 1138 mandates the adoption of evidence-based interview practices in criminal investigations to improve the reliability and accuracy of witness and suspect statements. The bill requires law enforcement agencies to implement structured interrogation techniques that research shows reduce false confessions and memory contamination. This represents a shift toward standardized, scientifically-supported methods across Washington state's investigative procedures.

Why this is important

False confessions and unreliable statements remain a significant cause of wrongful convictions, with studies showing that poor interviewing techniques contribute substantially to this problem. Implementing evidence-based practices like the PEACE model or cognitive interview methods can reduce both wrongful convictions and investigative errors, improving both public safety and justice system accuracy. This affects thousands of criminal cases annually and touches core issues of due process and investigative integrity.

Potential points of contention

  • Law enforcement training costs and implementation burden: Agencies may face substantial expenses retraining existing personnel and establishing new protocols across departments, potentially competing with other budget priorities
  • Concerns about investigative flexibility: Some law enforcement officials argue that rigid standardized procedures may limit investigators' ability to adapt to unique case circumstances or suppress information
  • Defining "evidence-based" practices: Disagreement may exist over which specific interview methods qualify as evidence-based and who determines compliance standards

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

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