On Tuesday, the Legislature passed a new version of Senate Bill 5536, a measure to criminalize possession of controlled substances
Rep. Peter Abbarno, Republican-20th District, released the following statement Tuesday (May 16) after the Legislature passed a new version of Senate Bill 5536, a measure to criminalize possession of controlled substances.
“This measure strikes a balance between accountability and compassion. And while it may not have all the hallmarks of a comprehensive criminal justice or substance abuse bill, it provides sufficient flexibility to the criminal justice system, as well as substance abuse and mental health providers, to adequately address community concerns with crime and drug use.
“Our state’s failure to curb drug-related crimes didn’t begin with the Blake decision. This problem was years in the making and was the result of misguided policies and a lack of leadership. Going forward, we need smart investments in workforce and infrastructure to provide effective treatment and hold offenders accountable. Washingtonians expect and deserve better.”
Background: In February 2021, the state Supreme Court ruled in State v. Blake that Washington’s felony drug-possession statute was unconstitutional because it criminalized possession even when a person did not knowingly have drugs.
Two months later, the Legislature passed Senate Bill 5476, a temporary measure reducing the penalty for possessing illegal drugs like fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine from a felony to a misdemeanor. That law was set to expire on July 1, 2023.
On the final day of the regular session, April 23, the majority party in the House brought up a measure to address the issue, Senate Bill 5536, for a vote. The bill fell seven votes short of a majority: 43-55.
Without a new law, Washington state would have no statewide criminal penalty for possession of controlled substances.
On May 2, Gov. Jay Inslee announced plans to call the Legislature into a May 16 special session for the purpose of passing a new drug possession law.
Information provided by Washington State House Republican Communications, houserepublicans.wa.gov
Also read:
- Opinion: if you’re a Trump-hating liberal, feel free to pay the old, higher tax rates today
Lars Larson challenges Trump-hating liberals to voluntarily pay the higher tax rates Harris proposed. - VFD welcomes new Engine 5 with traditional ‘Push-In’ Ceremony at Station 5
KME-manufactured Engine 5 brings advanced technology and modern safety systems to Vancouver’s emergency response fleet. - Expect delays on I-5 in Clark County for guardrail repairs April 16
WSDOT crews will close the left lane of southbound I-5 between Exit 11 and Northeast 179th Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Increasing interest in motorcycle riding means increasing risks for inexperienced riders
WSP launches early safety campaign as fatality rates for motorcyclists reach 27 times higher than car occupants. - County’s Commission on Aging continues discussion on mobility at April meeting
Four-part mobility series brings aging experts together for public discussion on transportation solutions. - Identity Clark County appoints Katie Henry to board
Henry brings experience from Austin Regional Clinic where she oversaw 13 capital projects and 50% patient growth. - Letter: It’s time to protect student choice in Washington classrooms
Vancouver resident calls for laws protecting students who opt out of animal dissection in science classes.
