WA HB1056

Attorney general gains explicit authority to investigate local law enforcement and local corrections agencies for violations of the Washington State Constitution or state law, including systemic issues like excessive force, unlawful stops/searches/arrests, and discriminatory practices

Attorney general may bring civil actions seeking injunctive or declaratory relief, damages, costs, and attorneys' fees against agencies found in violation

Investigations may be initiated independently or in response to oversight body reports; attorney general must coordinate with U.S. Department of Justice to avoid conflicts and cannot pursue concurrent civil actions if federal investigation is active

Authority targets systemic agency misconduct rather than isolated acts or individual officer liability; does not apply to state agencies like Washington State Patrol or Department of Corrections

Attorney general must develop and publish a model policy for law enforcement accountability systems by September 1, 2026, covering complaint intake, misconduct investigations, discipline, and appeals