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Bill

SB 5364

Modernizing, harmonizing, and clarifying laws concerning sheriffs, chiefs, marshals, and police matrons.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Manka Dhingra and 5 co-sponsors

Washington updates statutes defining sheriffs, police chiefs, marshals, and matrons to modernize job authorities and resolve legal contradictions in state law.

First reading, referred to Law & Justice.
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Bill Summary · SB 5364

Legislative bill overview

SB 5364 is a Washington state bill designed to update and clarify existing statutes governing sheriffs, police chiefs, marshals, and police matrons—roles whose legal definitions and authorities have become outdated or inconsistent across state law. The bill modernizes these definitions and harmonizes the regulatory framework to eliminate contradictions and ambiguities in how these law enforcement positions are defined and authorized.

Why is this important

Outdated or conflicting legal language can create uncertainty about job duties, authority limits, and accountability mechanisms for key law enforcement personnel. Clarifying these definitions helps ensure consistent governance across jurisdictions, reduces legal ambiguity that could affect enforcement actions, and provides clearer guidance to local governments hiring and overseeing these officials.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of authority changes: Any modifications to the powers of sheriffs, chiefs, or marshals could face pushback from law enforcement unions concerned about reduced authority or from reform advocates worried about expansive powers
  • Police matron role updates: Clarifying or modernizing the police matron position (historically a female officer with specific duties) may involve contentious decisions about whether to retain, eliminate, or substantially redefine this role
  • Jurisdiction and accountability issues: Harmonizing laws might reveal or address existing gaps in oversight, triggering debate over who should be responsible for complaints, discipline, and misconduct investigations

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

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