THURSTON COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The most controversial pieces of a new law targeting the state’s sheriffs have been thrown out.
The Washington State Standard reports that a Thurston County judge has blocked SB 5974, which took effect in April.
Superior Court Judge Christine Schaller ruled against certain parts of its new eligibility standards for anyone trying to run for sheriff.
Her ruling removes the requirements that sheriffs need to have at least five years of law enforcement experience and no felony or gross misdemeanor convictions. It also sets aside a requirement that candidates be at least 25 years old.
That criteria is already in place for police chiefs, who are appointed while sheriffs are typically elected.
Schaller’s ruling came after several sheriffs in eastern Washington sued over the new law, claiming it suppressed the will of voters. Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell Tanksley said he opposed the law when it was still a bill during the legislative session.
A formal court order that offers more insight into the ruling is expected to be made later this month.
The state attorney general’s office says they plan to appeal the decision.
