The Washington State House of Representatives recently approved a bill that allows police to engage in vehicular pursuits of criminal suspects on a very limited basis.

In 2021, the Legislature passed sweeping police reforms that included requiring a higher threshold for when officers could engage in vehicular pursuits. Rather than “reasonable suspicion” officers must meet the higher legal standard of “probable cause” to engage in a pursuit. That change has caused a surge in stolen vehicles and those fleeing from police, among other crimes.

Senate Bill 5352 would lower the “probable cause” standard, but only in specific instances. Police could only pursue in limited cases involving those suspected of a violent crime, a sex offense, domestic violence-related offenses, driving while under the influence, and trying to escape arrest.

12th District State Reps. Mike Steele and Keith Goehner issued the following statement regarding the bill’s passage:

“We both voted ‘yes’ on this bill because it’s a small step in the right direction; but after more than two years of failed policy, it’s deeply disappointing to see a bill that’s simply not enough.

“Since sweeping law enforcement reform was approved in 2021, criminal activity has surged — including high numbers of stolen vehicles and those fleeing police. Why? Because law enforcement hasn’t been given the authority to pursue criminals.

“That needs to change. When the legislative session began, a bipartisan bill that included 20 Democratic sponsors was offered as a fix. Instead of that solution, we’ve been given a watered-down version that will have a negligible impact on improving law enforcement’s ability to protect our communities.

“Our recent House vote doesn’t end this debate. We will continue to push for a more comprehensive and effective solution next year.”

With a split on both sides of the aisle, SB 5352 was approved by a vote of 57-40. The bill now heads to the Senate for a concurrence vote on the amended version of the measure.