title: RCW 43.43.842

text:
(1)(a) The secretary of social and health services and the secretary of health shall adopt additional requirements for the licensure or relicensure of agencies, facilities, and licensed individuals who provide care and treatment to vulnerable adults, including nursing pools registered under chapter 18.52C RCW. These additional requirements shall ensure that any person associated with a licensed agency or facility having unsupervised access with a vulnerable adult shall not be the respondent in an active vulnerable adult protection order under chapter 7.105 RCW, nor have been: (i) Convicted of a crime against children or other persons as defined in RCW 43.43.830, except as provided in this section; (ii) convicted of crimes relating to financial exploitation as defined in RCW 43.43.830, except as provided in this section; or (iii) found in any disciplinary board final decision to have abused a vulnerable adult as defined in RCW 43.43.830.
(b) A person associated with a licensed agency or facility who has unsupervised access with a vulnerable adult shall make the disclosures specified in RCW 43.43.834(2). The person shall make the disclosures in writing, sign, and swear to the contents under penalty of perjury. The person shall, in the disclosures, specify all crimes against children or other persons, all crimes relating to financial exploitation, and all crimes relating to drugs as defined in RCW 43.43.830, committed by the person.
(2) The rules adopted under this section shall permit the licensee to consider the criminal history of an applicant for employment in a licensed facility when the applicant has one or more convictions for a past offense and:
(a) The offense was simple assault, assault in the fourth degree, or the same offense as it may be renamed, and three or more years have passed between the most recent conviction and the date of application for employment;
(b) The offense was prostitution, or the same offense as it may be renamed, and three or more years have passed between the most recent conviction and the date of application for employment;
(c) The offense was theft in the third degree, or the same offense as it may be renamed, and three or more years have passed between the most recent conviction and the date of application for employment;
(d) The offense was theft in the second degree, or the same offense as it may be renamed, and five or more years have passed between the most recent conviction and the date of application for employment;
(e) The offense was forgery, or the same offense as it may be renamed, and five or more years have passed between the most recent conviction and the date of application for employment;
(f) The department of social and health services reviewed the employee's otherwise disqualifying criminal history through the department of social and health services' background assessment review team process conducted in 2002, and determined that such employee could remain in a position covered by this section; or
(g) The otherwise disqualifying conviction or disposition has been the subject of a pardon, annulment, or other equivalent procedure.
The offenses set forth in (a) through (g) of this subsection do not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment by a licensee. Nothing in this section may be construed to require the employment of any person against a licensee's judgment.
(3) The rules adopted pursuant to subsection (2) of this section may not allow a licensee to automatically deny an applicant with a conviction for an offense set forth in subsection (2) of this section for a position as a substance use disorder professional or substance use disorder professional trainee certified under chapter 18.205 RCW, as an agency affiliated counselor credentialed under chapter 18.19 RCW practicing as a peer counselor in an agency or facility, or as a peer specialist or peer specialist trainee certified under chapter 18.420 RCW, if:
(a) At least one year has passed between the applicant's most recent conviction for an offense set forth in subsection (2) of this section and the date of application for employment;
(b) The offense was committed as a result of the applicant's substance use or untreated mental health symptoms; and
(c) The applicant is at least one year in recovery from a substance use disorder, whether through abstinence or stability on medication-assisted therapy, or in recovery from a mental health disorder.
(4) In consultation with law enforcement personnel, the secretary of social and health services and the secretary of health shall investigate, or cause to be investigated, the conviction record and the protection proceeding record information under this chapter of the staff of each agency or facility under their respective jurisdictions seeking licensure or relicensure. An individual responding to a criminal background inquiry request from his or her employer or potential employer shall disclose the information about his or her criminal history under penalty of perjury. The secretaries shall use the information solely for the purpose of determining eligibility for licensure or relicensure. Criminal justice agencies shall provide the secretaries such information as they may have and that the secretaries may require for such purpose.
[ 2025 c 58 s 3009. Prior: 2023 c 469 s 20; 2023 c 425 s 23; 2021 c 215 s 150; prior: 2019 c 446 s 44; 2019 c 444 s 22; 2014 c 88 s 1; 2007 c 387 s 4; 1998 c 10 s 4; 1997 c 392 s 518; 1992 c 104 s 1; 1989 c 334 s 11.]
Notes:
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Effective date—2023 c 425 ss 1-7, 13-20, and 22-26: See note following RCW 18.83.170.
Effective date—2022 c 268; 2021 c 215: See note following RCW 7.105.900.
Short title—Findings—Construction—Conflict with federal requirements—Part headings and captions not law—1997 c 392: See notes following RCW 74.39A.009.

catchline: Vulnerable adults—Additional licensing requirements for agencies, facilities, and individuals providing services.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 43.43.845

text:
(1) Upon a guilty plea or conviction of a person of any felony crime specified under RCW 28A.400.322, the prosecuting attorney shall notify the state patrol of such guilty pleas or convictions.
(2) When the state patrol receives the notice required under subsection (1) of this section, the state patrol shall transmit that information to the superintendent of public instruction. It shall be the duty of the superintendent of public instruction, on at least a quarterly basis, to identify whether the person holds a certificate or permit issued under chapters 28A.405 and 28A.410 RCW or is employed by a school district, and provide this information to the Washington professional educator standards board and the school district employing the person.
[ 2009 c 396 s 8; 2006 c 263 s 828. Prior: 2005 c 421 s 7; 2005 c 237 s 1; 1990 c 33 s 577; 1989 c 320 s 6.]
Notes:
Findings—Purpose—Part headings not law—2006 c 263: See notes following RCW 28A.150.230.
Purpose—Statutory references—Severability—1990 c 33: See RCW 28A.900.100 through 28A.900.102.
Severability—1989 c 320: See note following RCW 28A.410.090.

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Notification of conviction or guilty plea of certain felony crimes—Transmittal of information to superintendent of public instruction.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 43.43.850

text:
There is hereby created in the Washington state patrol an organized crime intelligence unit which shall be under the direction of the chief of the Washington state patrol.
[ 1973 1st ex.s. c 202 s 1.]

catchline: Organized crime intelligence unit—Created.


title: RCW 43.43.852

text:
For the purposes of *RCW 43.43.850 through 43.43.864 "organized crime" means those activities which are conducted and carried on by members of an organized, disciplined association, engaged in supplying illegal goods and services and/or engaged in criminal activities in contravention of the laws of this state or of the United States.
[ 1973 1st ex.s. c 202 s 2.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 43.43.858 through 43.43.864 were repealed by 2009 c 560 s 24.

catchline: "Organized crime" defined.


title: RCW 43.43.854

text:
The organized crime intelligence unit shall collect, evaluate, collate, and analyze data and specific investigative information concerning the existence, structure, activities and operations of organized crime and the participants involved therein; coordinate such intelligence data into a centralized system of intelligence information; furnish and exchange pertinent intelligence data with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors with such security and confidentiality as the chief of the Washington state patrol may determine; develop intelligence data concerning the infiltration of organized crime into legitimate businesses within the state of Washington and furnish pertinent intelligence information thereon to law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in affected jurisdictions; and may assist law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in developing evidence for purposes of criminal prosecution of organized crime activities upon request.
[ 1973 1st ex.s. c 202 s 3.]

catchline: Powers and duties of organized crime intelligence unit.


title: RCW 43.43.856

text:
(1)(a) On and after April 26, 1973, it shall be unlawful for any person to divulge specific investigative information pertaining to activities related to organized crime which he or she has obtained by reason of public employment with the state of Washington or its political subdivisions unless such person is authorized or required to do so by operation of state or federal law.
(b) Any person violating (a) of this subsection is guilty of a class B felony punishable according to chapter 9A.20 RCW.
(2) Except as provided in RCW 43.43.854, or pursuant to the rules of the supreme court of Washington, all of the information and data collected and processed by the organized crime intelligence unit shall be confidential and not subject to examination or publication pursuant to chapter 42.56 RCW.
(3) The chief of the Washington state patrol shall prescribe such standards and procedures relating to the security of the records and files of the organized crime intelligence unit, as he or she deems to be in the public interest with the advice of the governor and the board.
[ 2005 c 274 s 298; 2003 c 53 s 230; 1973 1st ex.s. c 202 s 4.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.

catchline: Divulging investigative information prohibited—Confidentiality—Security of records and files.


title: RCW 43.43.870

text: See chapter 13.60 RCW.

catchline: Missing children clearinghouse and hotline, duties of state patrol.


title: RCW 43.43.874

text:
(1) Two liaison positions for missing and murdered indigenous women and other missing and murdered indigenous persons are established in the Washington state patrol. One liaison must reside in western Washington, and one liaison must reside in eastern Washington. The liaisons shall work to build relationships to increase trust between governmental organizations and native communities. The liaisons shall facilitate communications among:
(a) Indian tribes and tribal organizations and communities;
(b) Urban Indian organizations and communities;
(c) Tribal liaisons in other state agencies;
(d) Law enforcement agencies at the federal, state, local, and tribal level; and
(e) Nongovernmental entities that provide services to Native American women.
(2) The salary for the liaison positions is fixed by the Washington state patrol.
(3) To be eligible for hire as a liaison, an applicant must have significant experience living in tribal or urban indigenous communities.
[ 2019 c 127 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2019 c 127: "The legislature finds that Native American women experience violence at much higher rates than other populations. A recent federal study reported that Native American women are murdered at rates greater than ten times the national average. Many of these crimes, however, are often unsolved or even unreported because there are also very high rates of disappearance for Native American women.
The legislature further finds that although violence against Native American women has been a neglected issue in society, there is a growing awareness of this crisis, as well as a recognition that the criminal justice system needs to better serve and protect Native American women. The legislature intends to find ways to connect state, tribal, and federal resources to create partnerships to find ways to solve this crisis facing Native American women in our state, while being mindful to include voices from both tribal and urban communities." [ 2019 c 127 s 1.]

catchline: Missing and murdered indigenous women, other indigenous persons—Liaison positions.


title: RCW 43.43.876

text:
(1) The Washington state patrol must develop a best practices protocol for law enforcement response to missing persons reports for indigenous women and other indigenous persons. The protocol must include steps that law enforcement should take upon receiving a missing persons report for an indigenous woman or other indigenous person.
(2) The governor's office of Indian affairs must provide the Washington state patrol with government-to-government training, and must work with the Washington state patrol to schedule and facilitate the training.
[ 2019 c 127 s 3.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2019 c 127: See note following RCW 43.43.874.

catchline: Missing and murdered indigenous women, other indigenous persons—Protocol—Training.


title: RCW 43.43.880

text:
The Washington state patrol may negotiate and enter into bilateral agreements with designated representatives of contiguous states. Agreements may provide for the manning and operation of jointly occupied ports of entry, for the collection of highway user fees, registration fees, and taxes that may be required by statute or rule. Agreements may further provide for the collection of these fees and taxes by either party state at jointly occupied ports of entry before authorization is given for vehicles to legally operate within that state or jurisdiction, and for the enforcement of safety, size, and weight statutes or rules of the respective states.
[ 1988 c 21 s 1.]

catchline: Agreements with contiguous states—Jointly occupied ports of entry—Collection of fees and taxes.


title: RCW 43.43.885

text:
(1) Beginning on July 1, 2014, to the extent funds are appropriated, the Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs shall implement and operate an ongoing electronic statewide no-buy list database program.
(2) The database must be made available on a secured network or website.
(3) The no-buy list database program shall allow for any scrap metal business to enter a customer's name and date of birth into the database. The database must determine if the customer pursuing the transaction with the scrap metal business has been convicted in Washington of any crime involving burglary, robbery, theft, or possession of or receiving stolen property within the past four years.
(4) If the customer has been convicted of any crime involving burglary, robbery, theft, or possession of or receiving stolen property within the past four years despite whether the person was acting in his or her own behalf or as the agent of another then, at a minimum, the no-buy list database program must immediately send an alert to the scrap metal business stating: (a) That the customer is listed on a current no-buy list, (b) the four-year expiration period for the customer's most recent crime listed, and (c) a notification that entering into a transaction with the customer is prohibited under RCW 9A.56.410.
(5) The database shall also include individuals who have attempted to purchase or sell unlawfully obtained metals at licensed scrap metal recyclers and individuals who attempt to conduct a transaction while under the influence of controlled substances.
(6) Local jurisdictions applying for grants under RCW 36.28A.240 must provide updates to the no-buy list database annually and 120 days after a grant is distributed.
[ 2022 c 221 s 9; 2013 c 322 s 31.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2022 c 221: See notes following RCW 19.290.020.

catchline: Scrap metal no-buy list database program.


title: RCW 43.43.887

text:
The Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs shall not be held liable for civil damages resulting from any act or omission in carrying out the requirements of RCW 43.43.885 other than an act or omission constituting gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct.
[ 2013 c 322 s 33.]

catchline: Scrap metal no-buy list database program—Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs not liable for civil damages.


title: RCW 43.43.888

text:
Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the Washington state patrol shall:
(1) Conduct periodic inspections at least once a year of all licensed purchasers of catalytic converters that have been removed from vehicles that are licensed under chapter 46.79 or 46.80 RCW;
(2) Develop a standardized inspection form and train local law enforcement agencies, civilian employees, and limited authority law enforcement personnel on inspection procedures of licensed purchasers;
(3) Specify which specific law enforcement agencies have a duty to inspect the different business types that are licensed to purchase catalytic converters; and
(4) Authorize inspections to be conducted by civilian employees or limited authority law enforcement agencies if necessary to increase the availability of potential inspectors, provided that the Washington state patrol shall retain oversight of such inspections.
[ 2024 c 301 s 21.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2024 c 301: See notes following RCW 9A.82.180.

catchline: Catalytic converter inspections.


title: RCW 43.43.912

text:
For the purposes of this chapter, the terms spouse, marriage, marital, husband, wife, widow, widower, next of kin, and family shall be interpreted as applying equally to state registered domestic partnerships or individuals in state registered domestic partnerships as well as to marital relationships and married persons, and references to dissolution of marriage shall apply equally to state registered domestic partnerships that have been terminated, dissolved, or invalidated, to the extent that such interpretation does not conflict with federal law. Where necessary to implement chapter 521, Laws of 2009, gender-specific terms such as husband and wife used in any statute, rule, or other law shall be construed to be gender neutral, and applicable to individuals in state registered domestic partnerships.
[ 2009 c 521 s 107.]
Notes:
Effective dates—2009 c 521 ss 5-8, 79, 87-103, 107, 151, 165, 166, 173-175, and 190-192: See note following RCW 2.10.900.

catchline: Construction—Chapter applicable to state registered domestic partnerships—2009 c 521.


title: RCW 43.43.930

text:
The legislature finds that fire protection services at the state level are provided by different, independent state agencies. This has resulted in a lack of a comprehensive state-level focus for state fire protection services, funding, and policy. The legislature further finds that the paramount duty of the state in fire protection services is to enhance the capacity of all local jurisdictions to assure that their personnel with fire suppression, prevention, inspection, origin and cause, and arson investigation responsibilities are adequately trained to discharge their responsibilities. It is the intent of the legislature to consolidate fire protection services into a single state agency. It is also the intent of the legislature that the fire protection services program created herein will assist local fire protection agencies in program development without encroaching upon their historic autonomy. It is the further intent of the legislature that the fire protection services program be implemented incrementally to assure a smooth transition, to build local, regional, and state capacity, and to avoid undue burdens on jurisdictions with limited resources.
[ 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 44; 1995 c 369 s 14; 1993 c 280 s 68; 1986 c 266 s 54. Formerly RCW 43.63A.300.]
Notes:
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
Application—1995 c 369: "This act does not apply to forest fire service personnel and programs." [ 1995 c 369 s 70.]
Effective date—1995 c 369: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1995." [ 1995 c 369 s 72.]
Effective date—1993 c 280: See RCW 43.330.902.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
State fire protection: Chapter 43.44 RCW.

catchline: State fire protection services—Intent.


title: RCW 43.43.934

text:
The director of fire protection shall:
(1)(a)(i) With the state board for community and technical colleges, provide academic, vocational, and field training programs for the fire service; and (ii) with the state colleges and universities, provide instructional programs requiring advanced training, especially in command and management skills;
(b) Cooperate with the common schools, technical and community colleges, institutions of higher education, and any department or division of the state, or of any county or municipal corporation in establishing and maintaining instruction in fire service training and education in accordance with any act of congress and legislation enacted by the legislature in pursuance thereof and in establishing, building, and operating training and education facilities.
Industrial fire departments and private fire investigators may participate in training and education programs under this chapter for a reasonable fee established by rule;
(c) Develop and adopt a master plan for constructing, equipping, maintaining, and operating necessary fire service training and education facilities subject to the provisions of *chapter 43.19 RCW;
(d) Develop and adopt a master plan for the purchase, lease, or other acquisition of real estate necessary for fire service training and education facilities in a manner provided by law; and
(e)(i) Develop and adopt a plan for the Washington state patrol fire training academy to deliver basic firefighter training and testing to all city fire departments, fire protection districts, regional fire protection service authorities, and other public fire agencies in the state. The plan required by this subsection (1)(e) must specify that the delivery of training and testing services will be provided:
(A) To recipients in the following order of priority:
(I) Volunteer departments;
(II) Combination departments; and
(III) Fire agencies that employ only career firefighters and fire officers; and
(B) By personnel of the fire training academy, either at the academy's facilities in North Bend, Washington, or regionally at local fire agencies.
(ii) City fire departments, fire protection districts, regional fire protection service authorities, and other public fire agencies in the state may seek reimbursement for their firefighter I training expenses in accordance with the rules established by the Washington state patrol, director of fire protection.
(iii) Subject to approval by the director of fire protection, and in accordance with the plan required by this subsection (1)(e), the fire training academy facilities must be made available at no cost to fire service youth programs. The goal of making these facilities available is to increase enrollment of volunteer firefighters, and to improve gender, cultural, and ethnic diversity within the fire service.
(iv) For purposes of this subsection (1)(e), the following definitions apply:
(A) "Basic firefighter training and testing" means training and testing for firefighters that is up to and includes the requirements of firefighter I, as identified by the national fire protection association standard 1001;
(B) "Combination department" means a fire department with emergency service personnel comprising less than eighty-five percent of either volunteer or career membership;
(C) "Delivery of training" includes all resources, personnel, and equipment necessary to deliver training at the fire academy in North Bend, Washington, or regionally at local fire agencies; and
(D) "Volunteer department" means a fire department with volunteer emergency service personnel comprising eighty-five percent or greater of its department membership.
(2)(a) Promote mutual aid and disaster planning for fire services in this state;
(b) Assure the dissemination of information concerning the amount of fire damage including that damage caused by arson, and its causes and prevention; and
(c) Implement any legislation enacted by the legislature to meet the requirements of any acts of congress that apply to this section.
(3) In carrying out its statutory duties, the office of the state fire marshal shall give particular consideration to the appropriate roles to be played by the state and by local jurisdictions with fire protection responsibilities. Any determinations on the division of responsibility shall be made in consultation with local fire officials and their representatives.
To the extent possible, the office of the state fire marshal shall encourage development of regional units along compatible geographic, population, economic, and fire risk dimensions. Such regional units may serve to: (a) Reinforce coordination among state and local activities in fire service training, reporting, inspections, and investigations; (b) identify areas of special need, particularly in smaller jurisdictions with inadequate resources; (c) assist the state in its oversight responsibilities; (d) identify funding needs and options at both the state and local levels; and (e) provide models for building local capacity in fire protection programs.
(4) The Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, may adopt rules necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.
[ 2024 c 46 s 1; 2015 c 43 s 1; 2012 c 229 s 818; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 45; 2003 c 316 s 1. Prior: 1999 c 117 s 1; 1999 c 24 s 3; 1998 c 245 s 65; prior: 1995 c 369 s 16; 1995 c 243 s 11; 1993 c 280 s 69; 1986 c 266 s 56. Formerly RCW 43.63A.320.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: Requirements for procurement of goods and services are provided in chapter 39.26 RCW.
Effective date—2012 c 229 ss 101, 117, 401, 402, 501 through 594, 601 through 609, 701 through 708, 801 through 821, 902, and 904: See note following RCW 28B.77.005.
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
Findings—1999 c 24: See note following RCW 38.52.505.
Application—Effective date—1995 c 369: See notes following RCW 43.43.930.
Effective date—1995 c 243 s 11: "Section 11 of this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1995." [ 1995 c 243 s 13.]
Findings—Severability—1995 c 243: See notes following RCW 80.36.555.
Effective date—1993 c 280: See RCW 43.330.902.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.

catchline: Director of fire protection—Duties.


title: RCW 43.43.938

text:
(1) Wherever the term state fire marshal appears in the Revised Code of Washington or the Washington Administrative Code it shall mean the director of fire protection.
(2) The chief of the Washington state patrol shall appoint an officer who shall be known as the director of fire protection.
(3) The director of fire protection may designate one or more deputies and may delegate to those deputies his or her duties and authorities as deemed appropriate.
(4) The director of fire protection shall prepare a biennial budget pertaining to fire protection services. Such biennial budget shall be submitted as part of the Washington state patrol's budget request.
(5) The director of fire protection, shall implement and administer, within constraints established by budgeted resources, all duties of the chief of the Washington state patrol that are to be carried out through the director of fire protection, and all of the duties of the director of fire protection. Such administration shall include negotiation of agreements with the state board for community and technical colleges and the state colleges and universities as provided in RCW 43.43.934. Programs covered by such agreements shall include, but not be limited to, planning curricula, developing and delivering instructional programs and materials, and using existing instructional personnel and facilities. Where appropriate, such contracts shall also include planning and conducting instructional programs at the state fire service training center.
[ 2012 c 229 s 819; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 46; 1995 c 369 s 18; 1993 c 280 s 71; 1986 c 266 s 58. Formerly RCW 43.63A.340.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 229 ss 101, 117, 401, 402, 501 through 594, 601 through 609, 701 through 708, 801 through 821, 902, and 904: See note following RCW 28B.77.005.
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
Application—Effective date—1995 c 369: See notes following RCW 43.43.930.
Effective date—1993 c 280: See RCW 43.330.902.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.

catchline: Director of fire protection—Appointment—Duties.


title: RCW 43.43.939

text:
The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, shall have the power and it shall be his or her duty to adopt licensing minimum standard requirements for before-school and after-school programs in existing buildings approved by the state fire marshal.
[ 2013 c 227 s 2.]

catchline: Director of fire protection—Adoption of minimum standard requirements for before-school and after-school programs.


title: RCW 43.43.940

text:
The Washington state patrol may accept any and all donations, grants, bequests, and devises, conditional or otherwise, or money, property, service, or other things of value which may be received from the United States or any agency thereof, any governmental agency, any institution, person, firm, or corporation, public and private, to be held, used, or applied for the purposes of the fire service training program established in RCW 43.43.934.
[ 1995 c 369 s 19; 1986 c 266 s 59. Formerly RCW 43.63A.350.]
Notes:
Application—Effective date—1995 c 369: See notes following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.

catchline: Fire service training program—Grants and bequests.


title: RCW 43.43.941

text:
(1) The director of fire protection shall assess its policies affecting students who are participating in fire services training offered at: A community and technical college, including through the running start program established in RCW 28A.600.300; a preparatory secondary career and technical education program under chapter 28A.700 RCW, including a program administered by a skill center under chapter 28A.245 RCW; and other relevant educational programs. The policies, including age restrictions for fire services training, examinations, and certification, must be assessed for the purposes of increasing professional and volunteer opportunities in the fire service.
(2) The director of fire protection shall report to the legislature by October 1, 2025, on any changes made to its policies and practices and any recommendations on changes to state laws and rules for purposes of improving professional and volunteer opportunities in the fire service.
[ 2025 c 98 s 3.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2025 c 98: See note following RCW 18.73.165.

catchline: Fire services training—Student training programs.


title: RCW 43.43.942

text:
The Washington state patrol may: (1) Impose and collect fees for fire service training; and (2) establish and set fee schedules for fire service training.
[ 1995 c 369 s 20; 1986 c 266 s 60. Formerly RCW 43.63A.360.]
Notes:
Application—Effective date—1995 c 369: See notes following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.

catchline: Fire service training—Fees and fee schedules.


title: RCW 43.43.944

text:
(1) The fire service training account is hereby established in the state treasury. The primary purpose of the account is firefighter training for both volunteer and career firefighters. The fund shall consist of:
(a) All fees received by the Washington state patrol for fire service training;
(b) All grants and bequests accepted by the Washington state patrol under RCW 43.43.940;
(c) Twenty-two percent of all moneys received by the state on fire insurance premiums;
(d) Revenue from penalties established under RCW 19.27.740; and
(e) General fund—state moneys appropriated into the account by the legislature.
(2) Moneys in the account may be appropriated for: (a) Fire service training; (b) school fire prevention activities within the Washington state patrol; and (c) the maintenance, operations, and capital projects of the state fire training academy. However, expenditures for purposes of (b) and (c) of this subsection may only be made to the extent that these expenditures do not adversely affect expenditures for the purpose of (a) of this subsection. The state patrol may use amounts appropriated from the fire service training account under this section to contract with the Washington state firefighters apprenticeship trust for the operation of the firefighter joint apprenticeship training program. The contract may call for payments on a monthly basis.
(3) Any general fund—state moneys appropriated into the account shall be allocated solely to the firefighter joint apprenticeship training program. The Washington state patrol may contract with outside entities for the administration and delivery of the firefighter joint apprenticeship training program.
(4) During the 2025-2027 fiscal biennium, the legislature may direct the state treasurer to make transfers of money in the fire service training account to the general fund.
[ 2026 c 268 s 921; 2024 c 279 s 1; 2020 c 88 s 6; 2012 c 173 s 1; 2011 1st sp.s. c 48 s 7026; 2010 1st sp.s. c 37 s 923; 2007 c 520 s 6034; 2007 c 290 s 1; 2005 c 518 s 929; 2003 1st sp.s. c 25 s 919; 1999 c 117 s 2; 1995 c 369 s 21; 1986 c 266 s 61. Formerly RCW 43.63A.370.]
Notes:
Effective date—2026 c 268: See note following RCW 28B.15.210.
Effective date—2020 c 88: See note following RCW 19.27.700.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 48: See note following RCW 39.35B.050.
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 37: See note following RCW 13.06.050.
Part headings not law—Severability—Effective dates—2007 c 520: See notes following RCW 43.19.125.
Effective date—2005 c 518: See note following RCW 28A.600.110.
Severability—Effective date—2003 1st sp.s. c 25: See notes following RCW 19.28.351.
Application—Effective date—1995 c 369: See notes following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.

catchline: Fire service training account.


title: RCW 43.43.946

text:
The fire services trust fund is created in the state treasury. All receipts designated by the legislature shall be deposited in the fund. Appropriations from the fund may be made exclusively for the purposes specified in *RCW 43.63A.377.
[ 1991 c 135 s 2. Formerly RCW 43.63A.375.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 43.63A.377 was recodified as RCW 43.43.948 pursuant to 1995 c 369 s 69, effective July 1, 1995.
Intent—1991 c 135: "It is necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of the people of the state of Washington that fire code enforcement, public education on fire prevention, fire training for fire and emergency response personnel, and administration of these activities be funded in a dependable manner. It is therefore the intent of the legislature to establish a fund for these purposes." [ 1991 c 135 s 1.]
Effective date—1991 c 135: "This act is necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1991." [ 1991 c 135 s 8.]
Severability—1991 c 135: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1991 c 135 s 9.]

catchline: Fire services trust fund.


title: RCW 43.43.948

text:
Money from the fire services trust fund may be expended for the following purposes:
(1) Training of fire service personnel, including both classroom and hands-on training at the state fire training center or other locations approved by the chief of the Washington state patrol through the director of fire protection services;
(2) Maintenance and operation at the state's fire training center near North Bend. If in the future the state builds or leases other facilities as other fire training centers, a portion of these moneys may be used for the maintenance and operation at these centers;
(3) Lease or purchase of equipment for use in the provisions of training to fire service personnel;
(4) Grants or subsidies to local jurisdictions to allow them to perform their functions under this section;
(5) Costs of administering these programs under this section;
(6) Licensing and enforcement of state laws governing the sales of fireworks; and
(7) Development with the legal fireworks industry and funding of a statewide public education program for fireworks safety.
[ 1995 c 369 s 22; 1991 c 135 s 3. Formerly RCW 43.63A.377.]
Notes:
Application—Effective date—1995 c 369: See notes following RCW 43.43.930.
Intent—Effective date—Severability—1991 c 135: See notes following RCW 43.43.946.

catchline: Fire services trust fund—Expenditures.


title: RCW 43.43.950

text:
The state fire service training center bond retirement account of 1977 is hereby reestablished as an account within the treasury for the purpose of the payment of the principal of and interest on the bonds authorized to be issued pursuant to chapter 349, Laws of 1977 ex. sess., or chapter 470, Laws of 1985 or, if the legislature so determines, for any bonds and notes hereafter authorized and issued for the commission for vocational education or the statutory successor to its powers and duties involving the state fire training center.
The state finance committee, on or before June 30th of each year, shall certify to the state treasurer the amount required in the next succeeding twelve months for the payment of the principal of and the interest coming due on such bonds. The state treasurer shall withdraw from any general state revenues received in the state treasury and deposit in the state general obligation bond retirement fund such amounts and at such times as are required by the bond proceedings.
[ 1991 sp.s. c 13 s 79. Formerly RCW 43.63A.380.]
Notes:
Effective dates—1991 sp.s. c 13: See note following RCW 18.04.105.

catchline: Fire service training center bond retirement account of 1977.


title: RCW 43.43.952

text:
(1) The legislature finds that provisions for information systems relating to statistics and reporting for fire prevention, suppression, and damage control do not adequately address the needs of ongoing investigations of fire incidents where the cause is suspected or determined to be the result of negligence or otherwise suggestive of some criminal activity, particularly that of arson. It is the intent of the legislature to establish an information and reporting system designed specifically to assist state and local officers in conducting such investigations and, where substantiated, to undertake prosecution of individuals suspected of such activities.
(2)(a) In addition to the information provided by local officials about the cause, origin, and extent of loss in fires under *chapter 48.48 RCW, there is hereby created the state arson investigation information system in the Washington state patrol.
(b) The chief of the Washington state patrol shall develop the arson investigation information system in consultation with representatives of the various state and local officials charged with investigating fires resulting from suspicious or criminal activities under *chapter 48.48 RCW and of the insurance industry.
(c) The arson investigation information system shall be designed to include at least the following attributes: (i) The information gathered and reported shall meet the diverse needs of state and local investigating agencies; (ii) the forms and reports are drafted in understandable terms of common usage; and (iii) the results shall be adaptable to the varying levels of available resources, maintained in a manner to foster data sharing and mutual aid activities, and made available to other law enforcement agencies responsible for criminal investigations.
(d) All insurers required to report claim information under the provisions of chapter 48.50 RCW shall cooperate fully with any requests from the chief of the Washington state patrol in developing and maintaining the arson investigation information system. The confidentiality provisions of that chapter shall be fully enforced.
[ 1995 c 369 s 64.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: Chapter 48.48 RCW was recodified as chapter 43.44 RCW pursuant to 2006 c 25 s 13.
Application—Effective date—1995 c 369: See notes following RCW 43.43.930.

catchline: Arson investigation information system—Findings—Intent.


title: RCW 43.43.960

text:
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this subchapter.
(1) "All risk resources" means those resources regularly provided by fire departments, fire districts, and regional fire protection service authorities required to respond to natural or man-made incidents, including but not limited to:
(a) Wild land fires;
(b) Landslides;
(c) Earthquakes;
(d) Floods; and
(e) Contagious diseases.
(2) "Chief" means the chief of the Washington state patrol.
(3) "Fire chief" includes the chief officer of a statutorily authorized fire agency, or the fire chief's authorized representative. Also included are the department of natural resources fire control chief, and the department of natural resources regional managers.
(4) "Jurisdiction" means state, county, city, fire district, regional fire protection service authority, or port district units, or other units covered by this chapter.
(5) "Mobilization" means that all risk resources regularly provided by fire departments, fire districts, and regional fire protection service authorities beyond those available through existing agreements will be requested and, when available, sent in preparation of, or response to, an emergency or disaster situation that has or is predicted to exceed the capabilities of available local resources. During a large scale emergency, mobilization includes the redistribution of regional or statewide risk resources to either direct emergency incident assignments or to assignment in communities where resources are needed. All risk resources may not be mobilized to assist law enforcement with police activities during a civil protest or demonstration, or other exercise by the people of their constitutionally protected First Amendment rights, or other protected concerted activity, however, fire departments, fire districts, and regional fire protection service authorities are not restricted from providing medical care or aid and firefighting when mobilized for any purpose.
When mobilization is declared and authorized as provided in this chapter, all risk resources regularly provided by fire departments, fire districts, and regional fire protection service authorities including those of the host fire protection authorities, i.e. incident jurisdiction, shall be deemed as mobilized under this chapter, including those that responded earlier under existing mutual aid or other agreement. All nonhost fire protection authorities providing resources in response to a mobilization declaration shall be eligible for expense reimbursement as provided by this chapter from the time of the mobilization declaration.
This chapter shall not reduce or suspend the authority or responsibility of the department of natural resources under chapter 76.04 RCW.
(6) "Mutual aid" means emergency interagency assistance provided without compensation under an agreement between jurisdictions under chapter 39.34 RCW.
(7) "State fire marshal" means the director of fire protection in the Washington state patrol.
[ 2025 c 239 s 1; 2019 c 259 s 1. Prior: 2015 c 181 s 2; 2003 c 405 s 1; 1997 c 49 s 8; prior: 1995 c 391 s 5; 1995 c 369 s 10; 1992 c 117 s 9. Formerly RCW 38.54.010.]
Notes:
Effective date—2019 c 259: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2019." [ 2019 c 259 s 3.]
Intent—2015 c 181: See note following RCW 43.43.965.
Effective date—1995 c 391: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Findings—1992 c 117: See note following RCW 35.21.775.

catchline: State fire service mobilization—Definitions.


title: RCW 43.43.961

text:
Because of the possibility of the occurrence of disastrous fires or other disasters of unprecedented size and destructiveness, the need to insure that the state is adequately prepared to respond to such a fire or disaster, the need to establish a mechanism and a procedure to provide for reimbursement to state agencies and local agencies that respond to help others in time of need or to a host fire district that experiences expenses beyond the resources of the fire district, and generally to protect the public peace, health, safety, lives, and property of the people of Washington, it is hereby declared necessary to:
(1) Provide the policy and organizational structure for large scale mobilization of all risk resources in the state through creation of the Washington state fire services mobilization plan;
(2) Confer upon the chief the powers provided herein;
(3) Provide a means for reimbursement to state agencies and local fire jurisdictions that incur expenses when mobilized by the chief under the Washington state fire services mobilization plan; and
(4) Provide for reimbursement of the host fire department or fire protection district when it has: (a) Exhausted all of its resources; and (b) invoked its local mutual aid network and exhausted those resources. Upon implementation of state fire mobilization, the host district resources shall become state fire mobilization resources consistent with the fire mobilization plan.
It is the intent of the legislature that mutual aid and other interlocal agreements providing for enhanced emergency response be encouraged as essential to the public peace, safety, health, and welfare, and for the protection of the lives and property of the people of the state of Washington. If possible, mutual aid agreements should be without stated limitations as to resources available, time, or area. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed or interpreted to limit the eligibility of any nonhost fire protection authority for reimbursement of expenses incurred in providing all risk resources for mobilization provided that the mobilization must meet the requirements identified in the Washington state fire service mobilization plan.
[ 2015 c 181 s 3; 2003 c 405 s 2; 1997 c 49 s 9; 1995 c 391 s 6; 1992 c 117 s 10. Formerly RCW 38.54.020.]
Notes:
Intent—2015 c 181: See note following RCW 43.43.965.
Effective date—1995 c 391: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Findings—1992 c 117: See note following RCW 35.21.775.

catchline: State fire service mobilization—Legislative declaration and intent.


title: RCW 43.43.962

text:
The director of fire protection shall review and make recommendations to the chief on the refinement and maintenance of the Washington state fire services mobilization plan, which shall include the procedures to be used during fire and other emergencies for coordinating local, regional, and state fire jurisdiction resources. In carrying out this duty, the director of fire protection shall consult with and solicit recommendations from representatives of state and local fire and emergency management organizations, regional fire defense boards, and the department of natural resources. The Washington state fire services mobilization plan shall be consistent with, and made part of, the Washington state comprehensive emergency management plan. The chief shall review the fire services mobilization plan as submitted by the director of fire protection, recommend changes that may be necessary, and approve the fire services mobilization plan for inclusion within the state comprehensive emergency management plan.
It is the responsibility of the chief to mobilize jurisdictions under the Washington state fire services mobilization plan. The state fire marshal shall serve as the state fire resources coordinator when the Washington state fire services mobilization plan is mobilized.
[ 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 47; 2003 c 405 s 3; 1997 c 49 s 10; 1995 c 269 s 1101; 1992 c 117 s 11. Formerly RCW 38.54.030.]
Notes:
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
Effective date—Part headings not law—Severability—1995 c 269: See notes following RCW 18.16.050.
Findings—1992 c 117: See note following RCW 35.21.775.

catchline: State fire service mobilization—State fire services mobilization plan—State fire resources coordinator.


title: RCW 43.43.963

text:
(1) Regions within the state are initially established as follows but may be adjusted as necessary by the state fire marshal:
(a) Northwest region - Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, San Juan, and Island counties;
(b) Northeast region - Okanogan, Ferry, Stevens, Pend Oreille, Spokane, and Lincoln counties;
(c) Olympic region - Clallam and Jefferson counties;
(d) South Puget Sound region - Kitsap, Mason, King, and Pierce counties;
(e) Southeast region - Chelan, Douglas, Kittitas, Grant, Adams, Whitman, Yakima, Klickitat, Benton, Franklin, Walla Walla, Columbia, Garfield, and Asotin counties;
(f) Central region - Grays Harbor, Thurston, Pacific, and Lewis counties; and
(g) Southwest region - Wahkiakum, Cowlitz, Clark, and Skamania counties.
(2)(a) There is created a regional fire defense board within each region created in subsection (1) of this section.
(b) The regional fire defense boards shall consist of two members from each county in the region. One member from each county shall be appointed by the county fire chiefs' association or, in the event there is no such county association, by the county's legislative authority. Each county's office of emergency management or, in the event there is no such office, the county's legislative authority shall select the second representative to the regional board. The department of natural resources fire control chief shall appoint a representative from each department of natural resources region to serve as a member of the appropriate regional fire defense board.
(c) Members of each regional board will select a chairperson and secretary as officers. Members serving on the regional boards do so in a voluntary capacity and are not eligible for reimbursement for meeting-related expenses from the state.
(3)(a) Regional defense boards shall develop regional fire service plans that include provisions for organized fire agencies to respond across municipal, county, or regional boundaries.
(b) Each regional plan shall be consistent with the incident command system, the Washington state fire services mobilization plan, the requirements of this section, and regional response plans already adopted and in use in the state. The regional boards shall work with the relevant local government entities to facilitate development of intergovernmental agreements if any such agreements are required to implement a regional fire service plan.
(c) Each regional fire service plan must include a mechanism by which a local fire mobilization radio frequency, consistent with RCW 76.04.015, is identified and made available during the initial response to any forest fire that crosses jurisdictional lines so that all responders have access to communications during the response. Different initial response frequencies may be identified and used as appropriate in different geographic response areas. If the fire radio communication needs escalate beyond the capability of the identified local radio frequency, the use of other available designated interoperability radio frequencies may be used.
(d) Each regional fire service plan shall be approved by the director of fire protection.
[ 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 48; 2010 c 38 s 2; 1997 c 49 s 11; 1992 c 117 s 12. Formerly RCW 38.54.040.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2010 c 38 s 2 and by 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 48, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
Findings—1992 c 117: See note following RCW 35.21.775.

catchline: State fire service mobilization—Regional fire defense boards—Regional fire service plans—Regions established.


title: RCW 43.43.964

text:
The Washington state patrol in consultation with the office of financial management and the Washington military department shall develop procedures to facilitate reimbursement to state agencies and jurisdictions from appropriate federal and state funds when state agencies and jurisdictions are mobilized by the chief under the Washington state fire services mobilization plan. The Washington state patrol shall ensure that these procedures provide reimbursement to the host district in as timely a manner as possible.
[ 2003 c 405 s 4; 1997 c 49 s 12; 1995 c 391 s 7; 1992 c 117 s 13. Formerly RCW 38.54.050.]
Notes:
Effective date—1995 c 391: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Findings—1992 c 117: See note following RCW 35.21.775.

catchline: State fire service mobilization—Development of reimbursement procedures.


title: RCW 43.43.965

text:
The chief of the Washington state patrol must report on an annual basis the following information for each emergency or disaster in which the Washington state fire service mobilization plan was used for purposes other than fire suppression, and reimbursement was made under RCW 43.43.961:
(1) The type and nature of the disaster or emergency;
(2) The reasons why the host jurisdiction and mutual aid resources were exhausted;
(3) The additional risk resources provided under the mobilization plan;
(4) The cost incurred by the state patrol;
(5) The amount of reimbursement made under RCW 43.43.961 to the host jurisdiction and to each nonhost jurisdiction providing all risk resources; and
(6) An assessment and any recommendations of actions that can be taken by the host jurisdiction and its mutual aid network to prevent future use of the fire mobilization plan for similar disasters or emergencies.
[ 2015 c 181 s 4.]
Notes:
Intent—2015 c 181: "The legislature recognizes the vital role that our state's fire service personnel play in responding not just to fires but to disasters of varying types and kinds. The legislature further recognizes that the fire service mobilization plan may be a more effective tool for use in all emergencies and disasters to which fire departments, fire districts, and regional fire protection service authorities typically respond. It is the intent of the legislature that state fire service mobilization be allowed in all incidents to which fire departments, fire districts, and regional fire protection service authorities typically respond, so long as the mobilization meets the requirements identified in the Washington state fire service mobilization plan. It is the intent of the legislature to review the use of the fire mobilization plan for emergencies and disasters other than fire suppression to determine if this policy should continue or be modified." [ 2015 c 181 s 1.]

catchline: State fire service mobilization—Plan use for purposes other than fire suppression—Annual report.


title: RCW 43.43.970

text:
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter.
(1) "Agency" means any general purpose law enforcement agency as defined in RCW 10.93.020.
(2) "Board" means the state law enforcement mobilization policy board.
(3) "Chief" means the chief of the Washington state patrol.
(4) "Chief law enforcement officer" means the chief of police or sheriff responsible for law enforcement services in the jurisdiction in which the emergency is occurring.
(5) "General authority Washington peace officer" means a general authority Washington peace officer as defined in RCW 10.93.020.
(6) "Host agency" means the law enforcement agency that requests statewide mobilization under RCW 43.43.970 through 43.43.975.
(7) "Mobilization" means a redistribution of regional and statewide law enforcement resources in response to an emergency or disaster situation.
(8) "Mutual aid" means emergency interagency assistance provided without compensation pursuant to an agreement under chapter 39.34 RCW.
(9) "Resource coordination" means the effort to locate and arrange for the delivery of resources needed by chief law enforcement officers.
(10) "State law enforcement resource coordinator" means a designated individual or agency selected by the chief to perform the responsibilities of that position.
[ 2003 c 405 s 6.]
Notes:
Legislative declaration and intent—2003 c 405: "(1) Because of the possibility of a disaster of unprecedented size and destruction, including acts of domestic terrorism and civil unrest, that requires law enforcement response for the protection of persons or property and preservation of the peace, the need exists to ensure that the state is adequately prepared to respond to such an incident. There is a need to (a) establish a mechanism and a procedure to provide for reimbursement to law enforcement agencies that respond to help others in time of need, and to host law enforcement agencies that experience expenses beyond the resources of the agencies; and (b) generally to protect the public safety, peace, health, lives, and property of the people of Washington.
(2) It is hereby declared necessary to:
(a) Provide the policy and organizational structure for large-scale mobilization of law enforcement resources in the state, using the incident command system, through creation of the Washington state law enforcement mobilization plan;
(b) Confer upon the chief of the Washington state patrol the powers provided in this chapter;
(c) Provide a means for reimbursement to law enforcement jurisdictions that incur expenses when mobilized by the chief under the Washington state law enforcement mobilization plan; and
(d) Provide for reimbursement of the host law enforcement agency when it has:
(i) Exhausted all of its resources; and
(ii) Invoked its local mutual aid network and exhausted those resources." [ 2003 c 405 s 5.]


title: RCW 43.43.971

text:
(1) The state law enforcement mobilization policy board shall be established by the chief and shall have representatives from each of the regions established in RCW 43.43.974. In carrying out its duty, the board shall consult with and solicit recommendations from representatives of the state and local law enforcement and emergency management organizations, and regional law enforcement mobilization committees.
(2) The board shall establish and make recommendations to the chief on the refinement and maintenance of the Washington state law enforcement mobilization plan, including the procedures to be used during an emergency or disaster response requiring coordination of local, regional, and state law enforcement resources.
(3) The chief shall review the Washington state law enforcement mobilization plan, as submitted by the board, recommend changes as necessary, and may approve the plan. The plan shall be consistent with the Washington state comprehensive emergency management plan. The chief may recommend the plan for inclusion within the state comprehensive emergency management plan established under chapter 38.52 RCW.
[ 2003 c 405 s 7.]

catchline: Law enforcement mobilization—State law enforcement mobilization policy board—State law enforcement mobilization plan.


title: RCW 43.43.972

text:
(1) Local law enforcement may request mobilization only in response to an emergency or disaster exceeding the capabilities of available local resources and those available through existing mutual aid agreements. Upon finding that the local jurisdiction has exhausted all available resources, it is the responsibility of the chief to determine whether mobilization is the appropriate response to the emergency or disaster and, if so, to mobilize jurisdictions under the Washington state law enforcement mobilization plan.
(2) Upon mobilization, the chief shall appoint a state law enforcement resource coordinator, and an alternate, who shall serve jointly with the chief law enforcement officer from the host agency to command the mobilization effort consistent with incident command system procedures.
(3) Upon mobilization, all law enforcement resources including those of the host agency and those that responded earlier under an existing mutual aid or other agreement shall be mobilized. Mobilization may include the redistribution of regional or statewide law enforcement resources to either direct emergency incident assignments or to assignments in communities where law enforcement resources are needed.
(4) For the duration of the mobilization:
(a) Host agency resources shall become state law enforcement mobilization resources, under the command of the state law enforcement resource coordinator and the chief law enforcement officer from the host agency, consistent with the state law enforcement mobilization plan and incident command system procedures; and
(b) All law enforcement authorities providing resources in response to a mobilization declaration shall be eligible for expense reimbursement as provided by this chapter.
(5) The chief, in consultation with the regional law enforcement resource coordinator, shall determine when mobilization is no longer required and shall then declare the end to the mobilization.
[ 2003 c 405 s 8.]

catchline: Law enforcement mobilization—Local law enforcement request for mobilization—State law enforcement resource coordinator—Mobilization response—Declaration of end of mobilization.


title: RCW 43.43.973

text:
(1) The state law enforcement resource coordinator, or alternate, shall serve in that capacity for the duration of the mobilization.
(2) The duties of the coordinator are to:
(a) Coordinate the mobilization of law enforcement and other support resources within a region;
(b) Be primarily responsible for the coordination of resources in conjunction with the regional law enforcement mobilization committees, in the case of incidents involving more than one region or when resources from more than one region must be mobilized; and
(c) Advise and consult with the chief regarding what resources are required in response to the emergency or disaster and in regard to when the mobilization should end.
[ 2003 c 405 s 9.]

catchline: State law enforcement mobilization—State law enforcement coordinator—Duties.


title: RCW 43.43.974

text:
(1) Regions within the state are initially established as follows and may be adjusted as necessary by the state law enforcement policy board, but should remain consistent with the Washington state fire defense regions:
(a) Central region - Grays Harbor, Thurston, Pacific, and Lewis counties;
(b) Lower Columbia region - Kittitas, Yakima, and Klickitat counties;
(c) Mid-Columbia region - Chelan, Douglas, and Grant counties;
(d) Northeast region - Okanogan, Ferry, Stevens, Pend Oreille, Spokane, Adams, and Lincoln counties;
(e) Northwest region - Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, San Juan, and Island counties;
(f) Olympic region - Clallam and Jefferson counties;
(g) South Puget Sound region - Kitsap, Mason, King, and Pierce counties;
(h) Southeast region - Benton, Franklin, Walla Walla, Columbia, Whitman, Garfield, and Asotin counties;
(i) Southwest region - Wahkiakum, Cowlitz, Clark, and Skamania counties.
(2) Within each of the regions there is created a regional law enforcement mobilization committee. The committees shall consist of the sheriff of each county in the region, the district commander of the Washington state patrol from the region, a number of police chiefs within the region equivalent to the number of counties within the region plus one, and the director of the counties' emergency management office. The police chief members of each regional committee must include the chiefs of police of each city of ninety-five thousand or more population, and the number of members of the committee shall be increased if necessary to accommodate such chiefs. Members of each regional mobilization committee shall select a chair, who shall have authority to implement the regional plan, and a secretary as officers. Members serving on the regional mobilization committees shall not be eligible for reimbursement for meeting-related expenses from the state.
(3) The regional mobilization committees shall work with the relevant local government entities to facilitate development of intergovernmental agreements if any such agreements are required to implement a regional law enforcement mobilization plan.
(4) Regional mobilization committees shall develop regional law enforcement mobilization plans that include provisions for organized law enforcement agencies to respond across municipal, county, or regional boundaries. Each regional mobilization plan shall be consistent with the incident command system, the Washington state law enforcement mobilization plan, and regional response plans adopted prior to July 27, 2003.
(5) Each regional plan adopted under subsection (4) of this section shall be approved by the state law enforcement mobilization policy board before implementation.
[ 2003 c 405 s 10.]

catchline: State law enforcement mobilization—Regions established—Regional law enforcement mobilization committees—Regional law enforcement mobilization plans.


title: RCW 43.43.975

text:
The state patrol in consultation with the Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs and the office of financial management shall develop procedures to facilitate reimbursement to jurisdictions from funds appropriated specifically for this purpose when jurisdictions are mobilized under the Washington state law enforcement mobilization plan.
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed or interpreted to limit the eligibility of any nonhost law enforcement authority for reimbursement of expenses incurred in providing law enforcement resources for mobilization.
[ 2003 c 405 s 11.]

catchline: State law enforcement mobilization—Development of reimbursement procedures—Eligibility of nonhost law enforcement authority for reimbursement.


title: RCW 43.44.010

text:
(1) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her authorized deputy, shall have authority at all times of day and night, in the performance of duties imposed by this chapter, to enter upon and examine any building or premises where any fire has occurred and other buildings and premises adjoining or near thereto.
(2) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her authorized deputy, shall have authority at any reasonable hour to enter into any public building or premises or any building or premises used for public purposes to inspect for fire hazards.
[ 1995 c 369 s 25; 1986 c 266 s 67; 1985 c 470 s 17; 1947 c 79 s .33.03; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 45.33.03. Formerly RCW 48.48.030.]
Notes:
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Severability—1985 c 470: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1985 c 470 s 38.]
Effective date—1985 c 470: "This act shall take effect on January 1, 1986." [ 1985 c 470 s 40.]

catchline: Examination of premises.


title: RCW 43.44.020

text:
(1) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her authorized deputy, shall have authority to enter upon all premises and into all buildings except private dwellings for the purpose of inspection to ascertain if any fire hazard exists, and to require conformance with minimum standards for the prevention of fire and for the protection of life and property against fire and panic as to use of premises, and may adopt by reference nationally recognized standards applicable to local conditions.
(2) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her authorized deputy, may, upon request by the chief fire official or the local governing body or of taxpayers of such area, assist in the enforcement of any such code.
[ 1995 c 369 s 26; 1986 c 266 s 68; 1985 c 470 s 18; 1947 c 79 s .33.04; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 45.33.04. Formerly RCW 48.48.040.]
Notes:
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Severability—Effective date—1985 c 470: See notes following RCW 43.44.010.

catchline: Standards of safety.


title: RCW 43.44.030

text:
The director of fire protection shall make or cause to be made plan reviews and construction inspections for all E-1 occupancies as may be necessary to insure compliance with the state building code and standards for schools adopted under chapter 19.27 RCW. Nothing in this section prohibits the director of fire protection from delegating construction inspection authority to any local jurisdiction.
[ 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 49; 1991 c 170 s 2; 1986 c 266 s 69; 1985 c 470 s 19; 1981 c 198 s 3; 1972 ex.s. c 70 s 1. Formerly RCW 48.48.045.]
Notes:
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Severability—Effective date—1985 c 470: See notes following RCW 43.44.010.

catchline: Schools—Compliance with standards for fire prevention and safety—Plan reviews and construction inspections.


title: RCW 43.44.040

text:
(1) If the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her authorized deputy, finds in any building or premises subject to their inspection under this chapter, any combustible material or flammable conditions or fire hazards dangerous to the safety of the building, premises, or to the public, he or she shall by written order require such condition to be remedied, and such order shall forthwith be complied with by the owner or occupant of the building or premises.
(2) An owner or occupant aggrieved by any such order made by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her deputy, may appeal such order pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW. If the order is confirmed, the order shall remain in force and be complied with by the owner or occupant.
(3) Any owner or occupant failing to comply with any such order not appealed from or with any order so confirmed shall be punishable by a fine of not less than ten dollars nor more than fifty dollars for each day such failure exists.
[ 1995 c 369 s 27; 1986 c 266 s 70; 1985 c 470 s 20; 1947 c 79 s .33.05; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 45.33.05. Formerly RCW 48.48.050.]
Notes:
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Severability—Effective date—1985 c 470: See notes following RCW 43.44.010.

catchline: Removal of fire hazards—Appeal of order—Penalty.


title: RCW 43.44.050

text:
(1) The responsibility for investigating the origin, cause, circumstances, and extent of loss of all fires shall be assigned as follows:
(a) Within any city or town, the chief of the fire department;
(b) Within unincorporated areas of a county, the county fire marshal, or other fire official so designated by the county legislative authority.
(2) No fire marshal, or other person, may enter the scene of an emergency until permitted by the officer in charge of the emergency incident.
(3) Nothing shall prevent any city, town, county, or fire protection district, or any combination thereof, from entering into interlocal agreements to meet the responsibility required by this section.
(4) When any fire investigation indicates that the cause of the fire is determined to be suspicious or criminal in nature, the person responsible for the fire investigation shall immediately report the results of said investigation to the local law enforcement agency and the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the state fire marshal.
(5) In addition to the responsibility imposed by this section, any law enforcement agency, sheriff, or chief of police may assist in the investigation of the origin, cause, circumstances, and extent of loss of all fires within his or her respective jurisdiction.
(6) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her deputy, may investigate any fire for the purpose of determining its cause, origin, and the extent of the loss. The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her deputy, shall assist in the investigation of those fires of criminal, suspected, or undetermined cause when requested by the reporting agency. In the investigation of any fire of criminal, suspected, or undetermined cause, the chief of the Washington state patrol and the director of fire protection or his or her deputy, are vested with police powers to enforce the laws of this state. To exercise these powers, authorized deputies must receive prior written authorization from the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, and shall have completed a course of training prescribed by the Washington state criminal justice training commission.
[ 1996 c 161 s 1; 1995 c 369 s 28; 1986 c 266 s 71; 1985 c 470 s 21; 1981 c 104 s 1; 1980 c 181 s 1; 1947 c 79 s .33.06; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 45.33.06. Formerly RCW 48.48.060.]
Notes:
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Severability—Effective date—1985 c 470: See notes following RCW 43.44.010.

catchline: Reports and investigation of fires—Police powers.


title: RCW 43.44.060

text:
(1) The chief of each organized fire department, or the sheriff or other designated county official having jurisdiction over areas not within the jurisdiction of any fire department, shall report statistical information and data to the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, on each fire occurring within the official's jurisdiction and, within two business days, report any death resulting from fire.
(2) Reports submitted pursuant to subsection (1) of this section shall be consistent with the national fire incident reporting system developed by the United States fire administration and rules established by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection. Rules established by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, must require fire departments to report data on the age of any structure involved in a fire when that information is available through property records or other methods.
(3) Subject to availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, shall administer the national fire incident reporting system including, but not limited to, the following responsibilities:
(a) Purchasing equipment, including software, needed for the operation of the reporting system;
(b) Establishing procedures, standards, and guidelines pertaining to the statistical information and data reported by fire departments through the reporting system;
(c) Providing training and education to fire departments pertaining to the reporting system; and
(d) Employing staff to administer the reporting system, as needed.
(4) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, and the department of natural resources shall jointly determine the statistical information to be reported on fires on land under the jurisdiction of the department of natural resources.
(5) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, shall analyze the information and data reported, compile a report, and distribute a copy annually by July 1st to each chief fire official in the state. Upon request, the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, shall also furnish a copy of the report to any other interested person at cost.
(6) For purposes of this section, "national fire incident reporting system" or "reporting system" means the national fire incident reporting system or the state equivalent as selected by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
[ 2017 c 308 s 1; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 50; 1999 c 231 s 1; 1995 c 369 s 29; 1986 c 266 s 72; 1985 c 470 s 22; 1980 c 181 s 2. Formerly RCW 48.48.065.]
Notes:
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Severability—Effective date—1985 c 470: See notes following RCW 43.44.010.

catchline: Statistical information and reports—National fire incident reporting system.


title: RCW 43.44.070

text:
In the conduct of any investigation into the cause, origin, or loss resulting from any fire, the chief of the Washington state patrol and the director of fire protection shall have the same power and rights relative to securing the attendance of witnesses and the taking of testimony under oath as is conferred upon the insurance commissioner under RCW 48.03.070. False swearing by any such witness shall be deemed to be perjury and shall be subject to punishment as such.
[ 1995 c 369 s 30; 1986 c 266 s 73; 1985 c 470 s 23; 1947 c 79 s .33.07; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 45.33.07. Formerly RCW 48.48.070.]
Notes:
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Severability—Effective date—1985 c 470: See notes following RCW 43.44.010.

catchline: Examination of witnesses.


title: RCW 43.44.080

text:
If as the result of any such investigation, or because of any information received, the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, is of the opinion that there is evidence sufficient to charge any person with any crime, he or she may cause such person to be arrested and charged with such offense, and shall furnish to the prosecuting attorney of the county in which the offense was committed, the names of witnesses and all pertinent and material evidence and testimony within his or her possession relative to the offense.
[ 1995 c 369 s 31; 1986 c 266 s 74; 1985 c 470 s 24; 1947 c 79 s .33.08; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 45.33.08. Formerly RCW 48.48.080.]
Notes:
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Severability—Effective date—1985 c 470: See notes following RCW 43.44.010.

catchline: Criminal prosecutions.


title: RCW 43.44.090

text:
The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, shall keep on file all reports of fires made to him or her pursuant to this code. Such records shall at all times during business hours be open to public inspection; except, that any testimony taken in a fire investigation may, in the discretion of the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, be withheld from public scrutiny. The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, may destroy any such report after five years from its date.
[ 1995 c 369 s 32; 1986 c 266 s 75; 1985 c 470 s 25; 1947 c 79 s .33.09; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 45.33.09. Formerly RCW 48.48.090.]
Notes:
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.
Severability—Effective date—1985 c 470: See notes following RCW 43.44.010.

catchline: Record of fires.


title: RCW 43.44.110

text:
(1) Smoke detection devices shall be installed inside all dwelling units:
(a) Occupied by persons other than the owner on and after December 31, 1981;
(b) Built or manufactured in this state after December 31, 1980; or
(c) Sold on or after July 1, 2019.
(2) The smoke detection devices shall be designed, manufactured, and installed inside dwelling units in conformance with:
(a) Nationally accepted standards; and
(b) As provided by the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW, rules and regulations promulgated by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(3) Installation of smoke detection devices shall be the responsibility of the owner. Maintenance of smoke detection devices, including the replacement of batteries where required for the proper operation of the smoke detection device, shall be the responsibility of the tenant, who shall maintain the device as specified by the manufacturer. At the time of a vacancy, the owner shall insure that the smoke detection device is operational prior to the reoccupancy of the dwelling unit.
(4)(a) For any dwelling unit sold on or after July 1, 2019, that does not have at least one smoke detection device, the seller shall provide at least one smoke detection device in the dwelling unit before the buyer or any other person occupies the dwelling unit following such sale. A violation of this subsection does not affect the transfer of the title, ownership, or possession of the dwelling unit.
(b) Real estate brokers licensed under chapter 18.85 RCW are not liable in any civil, administrative, or other proceeding for the failure of any seller or other property owner to comply with the requirements of this section.
(c) Any person or entity that assists the buyer of a dwelling [unit] with installing a smoke detection device, whether they are voluntarily doing so or as a nonprofit, is not liable in any civil, administrative, or other proceeding relating to the installation of the smoke detection device.
(d) Interconnection of smoke detection devices is not required where not already present in buildings undergoing repairs undertaken solely as a condition of sale.
(5)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection (5), any owner, seller, or tenant failing to comply with this section shall be punished by a fine of not more than two hundred dollars.
(b) Any owner failing to comply with this section shall be punished by a fine of five thousand dollars if, after such failure, a fire causes property damage, personal injury, or death to a tenant or a member of a tenant's household. All moneys received pursuant to (a) or (b) of this subsection, except for administrative costs for enforcing the fine, shall be deposited into the smoke detection device awareness account created in RCW 43.44.115. Enforcement shall occur after a fire occurs and when it is evident that the dwelling unit sold on or after July 1, 2019, did not have at least one smoke detection device. The following may enforce this subsection:
(i) The chief of the fire department if the dwelling unit is located within a city or town; or
(ii) The county fire marshal or other fire official so designated by the county legislative authority if the dwelling unit is located within unincorporated areas of a county.
(6) For the purposes of this section:
(a) "Dwelling unit" means a single unit providing complete, independent living facilities for one or more persons including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation; and
(b) "Smoke detection device" means an assembly incorporating in one unit a device which detects visible or invisible particles of combustion, the control equipment, and the alarm-sounding device, operated from a power supply either in the unit or obtained at the point of installation.
[ 2019 c 455 s 1; 1995 c 369 s 34; 1991 c 154 s 1; 1986 c 266 s 89; 1980 c 50 s 1. Formerly RCW 48.48.140.]
Notes:
Effective date—2019 c 455 s 1: "Section 1 of this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2019." [ 2019 c 455 s 7.]
Short title—2019 c 455: "This act shall be known and cited as the Greg "Gibby" Gibson home fire safety act." [ 2019 c 455 s 5.]
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.

catchline: Smoke detection devices in dwelling units—Penalties.


title: RCW 43.44.115

text:
The smoke detection device awareness account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts from fines imposed pursuant to RCW 43.44.110(5) must be deposited into the account. Expenditures from the account may be used only for the purposes of raising public awareness of owners and tenants' duties pertaining to smoke detection devices under RCW 43.44.110 and of the danger to life and property resulting from a failure to comply with those duties and for administrative costs related to enforcement of the fine created in RCW 43.44.110(5)(b). Only the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or the director of fire protection's authorized deputy, may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to the allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures.
[ 2019 c 455 s 2.]
Notes:
Short title—2019 c 455: See note following RCW 43.44.110.

catchline: Smoke detection device awareness account.


title: RCW 43.44.120

text:
(1) All premises guarded by guard animals, which are animals professionally trained to defend and protect premises or the occupants of the premises, shall be registered with the local fire department. Front entrances to residences and all entrances to business premises shall be posted in a visible location with signs approved by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, indicating that guard animals are present.
(2) A firefighter, who reasonably believes that his or her safety is endangered by the presence of a guard animal, may without liability: (a) Refuse to enter the premises, or (b) take any reasonable action necessary to protect himself or herself from attack by the guard animal.
(3) If the person responsible for the guard animal being on the premises does not comply with subsection (1) of this section, that person may be held liable for any injury to the firefighter caused by the presence of the guard animal.
[ 1995 c 369 s 35; 1986 c 266 s 90; 1983 c 258 s 1. Formerly RCW 48.48.150.]
Notes:
Effective date—1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.
Severability—1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.

catchline: Premises with guard animals—Registration, posting—Acts permitted firefighters—Liability for injury to firefighters.


title: RCW 43.44.130

text:
(1) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her authorized deputy, shall, in consultation with the emergency management program within the state military department, the department of ecology, the utilities and transportation commission, and local emergency services organizations:
(a) Evaluate the preparedness of local first responders in meeting emergency management demands under subsection (2) of this section; and
(b) Conduct an assessment of the equipment and personnel needed by local first responders to meet emergency management demands related to pipelines.
(2) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her deputy, shall develop curricula for training local first responders to deal with hazardous liquid and gas pipeline accidents. The curricula shall be developed in conjunction with pipeline companies and local first responders, and shall include a timetable and costs for providing training as defined in the curricula to all communities housing pipelines. Separate curricula shall be developed for hazardous liquid and gas pipelines so that the differences between pipelines may be recognized and appropriate accident responses provided. The need for a training program for regional incident management teams shall also be evaluated.
(3) In consultation with other relevant agencies, the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection or his or her deputy, shall identify the need and means for achieving consistent application of the national interagency incident management system.
(4) For the purposes of this section, "local first responders" means police, fire, emergency medical staff, and volunteers.
[ 2000 c 191 s 20. Formerly RCW 48.48.160.]
Notes:
Intent—Findings—Conflict with federal requirements—Short title—Effective date—2000 c 191: See RCW 81.88.005 and 81.88.900 through 81.88.902.

catchline: Hazardous liquid and gas pipeline accidents—Preparedness of local first responders.


title: RCW 43.44.200

text:
(1) There is created the Washington state fire service policy board to generally advise the state director of fire protection on all matters related to the purview of the state fire marshal's office. This includes, but is not limited to, developing recommendations regarding agency budget requests and developing strategies to enhance the safe and effective delivery of fire service training and resources.
(2) The fire service policy board consists of:
(a) The president of the Washington state council of firefighters, or the president's designee;
(b) The president of the Washington state firefighters' association, or the president's designee;
(c) The executive director of the Washington state fire commissioners association, or the director's designee;
(d) The executive director of the Washington fire chiefs association, or the director's designee;
(e) The president of the Washington state fire marshals association, or the president's designee; and
(f) The director of fire protection, or the director's designee, as a nonvoting ex officio member.
(3) The members of the fire service policy board shall designate an administrative chair to facilitate meetings. The board shall convene quarterly, at a minimum, as well as subject to the call of the administrative chair for any purpose that directly relates to the duties set forth in subsection (1) of this section or as is otherwise requested by the state director of fire protection or the administrative chair.
(4) In performing the duties under this section, the fire service policy board is encouraged to seek input from representatives of industries licensed or regulated by the state fire marshal's office, agencies, and other organizations, as appropriate. The fire service policy board may create ad hoc, voluntary advisory committees as needed. Members of an advisory committee and individuals serving in an advisory capacity may not be reimbursed for expenses or receive compensation or other funding, for activities performed under this subsection.
(5) Each member of the fire service policy board serves without compensation but may be reimbursed for travel expenses as authorized in RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060.
(6) The members of the fire service policy board, or individuals acting on their behalf, are immune from civil liability for official acts performed in the course of their duties.
[ 2025 c 193 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2025 c 193: "The legislature finds that Washington state's fire service has evolved significantly over the past quarter century. Since the mid-1990s, fire departments across the state have taken on more responsibilities than ever previously envisioned. In addition to fire suppression, Washington's fire service has evolved to provide basic and advanced life support, educate the public on fire prevention, perform technical rescue, respond to hazardous materials incidents, provide all-hazards response to wildland fires, natural disasters, and pandemics and infectious disease outbreaks, and more. During this same time, Washington's population has grown by more than two million residents.
The legislature further finds that the fire service delivery work group established in 2023 and comprised of stakeholders from the entirety of the fire service in Washington state highlighted that the state fire marshal's office has been significantly deprioritized and underfunded for the last 10 years or longer. Over the last 10 years, just 3.4 percent of the state fire marshal's office policy level budget requests were funded, while the fire service training account's year-end balance declined $6.2 million over the last 12 years due to insufficient funding. These funding shortfalls have resulted in several statutory mandates being unperformed, including fire investigations, which compromise preventative efforts to reduce fire occurrences and fire impacts, ultimately compromising community and environmental safety. Further, inadequate funding for firefighter training creates unequal access to training opportunities, especially in rural and economically vulnerable areas that cannot afford to travel to the training academy. Inaccessible firefighter training risks the safety of historically marginalized communities, their firefighters, and natural environments.
The legislature acknowledges the breadth and depth of the services the public expects, and that the fire service delivers, to protect life, property, and the environment. Therefore, the legislature intends to establish the fire service policy board to ensure that the state director of fire protection has the necessary authority and support to guarantee the continued provision of comprehensive fire service training, fire prevention, investigations, and all-hazards response for all of Washington state." [ 2025 c 193 s 1.]

catchline: Fire service policy board.


title: RCW 43.46.005

text:
The conservation and development of the state's artistic resources is essential to the social, educational, and economic growth of the state of Washington. Artists, works of art, and artistic institutions contribute to the quality of life and the general welfare of the citizens of the state, and are an appropriate matter of concern to the government of the state of Washington.
[ 1985 c 317 s 1.]

catchline: Purpose.


title: RCW 43.46.015

text:
There is established a Washington state arts commission. The commission consists of nineteen members appointed by the governor and four members of the legislature, one from each caucus in the senate and appointed by the president of the senate and one from each caucus in the house of representatives and appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives. The governor shall appoint citizens representing the various disciplines within the visual, performing and literary arts, and other citizens active in the arts community. The governor shall consider nominations for membership from individuals actively involved in cultural, state or community organizations. The governor shall also consider geographical distribution of the membership in the appointment of new members.
[ 1999 c 241 s 1; 1985 c 317 s 2.]

catchline: Washington state arts commission established—Composition.


title: RCW 43.46.030

text:
Members shall serve three year terms. A legislative member shall serve as long as he or she is a member of the legislative body from which he or she was appointed. Each member will continue to serve until a successor is appointed. Vacancies shall be filled by appointment for the remainder of the unexpired term.
[ 1985 c 317 s 3; 1967 ex.s. c 125 s 4; 1965 c 8 s 43.46.030. Prior: 1961 c 301 s 3.]

catchline: Terms—Vacancies.


title: RCW 43.46.040

text:
Members of the commission shall serve without compensation. However, nonlegislative members shall be reimbursed for travel expenses as provided in RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060 and legislative members shall be reimbursed as provided in RCW 44.04.120. The commission shall organize, elect a chairperson annually, and adopt rules pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW. A majority of its members constitute a quorum. Any action as defined in RCW 42.30.020(3) shall be taken only at a meeting at which a quorum is present.
[ 1985 c 317 s 4; 1965 c 8 s 43.46.040. Prior: 1961 c 301 s 4.]


title: RCW 43.46.045

text:
The governor shall select a full time executive director from a list of three names submitted by the commission by September 1, 1988, and anytime thereafter that a vacancy occurs. The executive director shall receive no other salary and shall not be otherwise gainfully employed. Subject to the provisions of chapter 41.06 RCW, the executive director may also employ such clerical and other assistants as may be reasonably required to carry out commission functions. The executive director shall serve at the pleasure of the governor.
[ 1988 c 81 s 23; 1985 c 317 s 5; 1967 ex.s. c 125 s 2.]

catchline: Executive director—Employees.


title: RCW 43.46.050

text:
The commission shall meet, study, plan, and advise the governor, the various departments of the state and the state legislature and shall make such recommendations as it deems proper for the cultural development of the state of Washington.
[ 1985 c 317 s 6; 1965 c 8 s 43.46.050. Prior: 1961 c 301 s 5.]

catchline: Powers and duties generally.


title: RCW 43.46.055

text:
The commission may develop, sponsor, promote and administer any activity, project, or program within or without this state which is related to the growth and development of the arts and humanities in the state of Washington and may assist any person or public or private agency to this end.
[ 1985 c 317 s 7; 1967 ex.s. c 125 s 1.]

catchline: Development of arts and humanities.


title: RCW 43.46.060

text:
The commission may accept gifts and grants upon such terms as the commission shall deem proper.
[ 1965 c 8 s 43.46.060. Prior: 1961 c 301 s 6.]

catchline: Gifts and grants.


title: RCW 43.46.070

text:
The commission shall make a biennial report of its proceedings and recommendations to the governor, which shall contain a full description of program and project activity, including fund sources and expenditures for the biennium covered by the report.
[ 1985 c 317 s 8; 1965 c 8 s 43.46.070. Prior: 1961 c 301 s 7.]

catchline: Biennial report.