Washblog

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Please call the LEGISLATIVE HOTLINE at  1-800-562-6000 or visit http://leg.wa.gov/ (click on "Find Your District) to reach your legislators.

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Two key justice measures -- both of which have been in the legislature for 10 years or more -- got good traction this legislative session. Both now sit in Rules facing a critical deadline next week.  They need your calls and emails.  

Ending Washington's Poll Tax
SB 5534, Restoration of the right to vote for people convicted of felonies, is endorsed by Washington's Secretary of State and State Auditor and has a good chance of success this session.  It's no sure thing, though -- and needs your calls and emails.  167,000 Washingtonians cannot vote only because they owe money due to prior felonies for which they have served their time. Here are two quick action links from ACLU.  The House version has been watered down to a study bill, so the Senate version is the preference: Senate Bill 5534 and  House Bill 1517.   Also see GET THE VOTE BACK.

Ending Life Sentences for Lower Seriousness Crimes
Senate Bill 5292 would implement the 2001 Sentencing Guidelines Commission recommendation to remove Robbery 2, a lower-seriousness crime, from the 3-Strikes list resulting in Life Without Parole.  It passed in committee but remains a long-shot for this session. Your calls and emails may help this session -- are a key for a strong start on this legislation next session.  See the list of organizations supporting 3-Strikes reform at FIX 3-STRIKES.

Democratic leadership has blocked this measure for years.  These leaders need to know they have political backing for this common-sense measure.  As a recent Seattle Times Editorial notes:

"Legislators should buck up and support a bill that would remove second-degree robbery from the list of "strikes" under the "three strikes, you're out" law. Lifetime imprisonment is not proportional to the crime. It is not necessary for the protection of the public. It is not justice."