HB 2442: AN INCLUSIVE APPROACH

Opponents of HB 2442 have made several arguments against the creation of a formal naming committee for the Law Enforcement Memorial Wall in Olympia. Some have expressed concern that such a committee could dilute the significance of the memorial by allowing for the inclusion of names that do not meet the current strict criteria for inclusion. Others have argued that the current process, which is overseen by the Behind the Badge Foundation, is already effective and well-established. However, the Washington State Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) has provided a counterpoint, arguing that a formal naming committee would provide greater transparency and accountability in the selection process, while also ensuring that the broadest of voices are heard. This bill is not intended to criticize the current Foundation; it’s to ensure that we have the best process possible for inclusion decisions.

The Argument Being Made Against HB 2442

There is a bill being proposed (HB 2442) that threatens the integrity of the Law Enforcement Memorial Wall in Olympia. It also revokes guardianship from Behind the Badge Foundation. This bill has the potential to recklessly strip the oversight of in the line of duty death; requirements, undermining the profound sacrifice etched in every name. For two decades, Behind the Badge has meticulously managed, maintained, and investigated before engraving officers names on the Memorial Wall. Allowing a shift to

broader criteria risks diluting the Wall’s significance and diminishing its true representation.

The Reality

This bill does not amend the current naming criteria and will not weaken the significance of names being placed on the memorial wall. Instead, the bill establishes a diverse naming committee to make the inclusion decisions; Behind the Badge would then be responsible to implement that committee’s decisions. This is not a shift to “broader criteria” but a change to bring the broadest range of perspectives to bear in interpreting the current criteria. Today, various memorials at the federal, state, and local level have consistent criteria, but do not reach consistent interpretations of those criteria. Having a broader range of stakeholders involved in inclusion decisions will help provide that consistency.

Benefits of HB 2442

While it's understandable to be concerned and cautious regarding any changes to the selection process for our Law Enforcement Memorial Wall and the role of Behind the Badge Foundation, it's more important to consider the potential benefits of this bill.

Broadening the representation in naming the fallen for inclusion on the Memorial Wall, we can ensure that all members of the law enforcement community who have made sacrifices in the line of duty are appropriately recognized and remembered.

Including more voices in the selection process for the Law Enforcement Memorial Wall can foster collaboration, transparency, and healing. By involving a broad range of stakeholders in the decision-making process, we can ensure that diverse perspectives are taken into account and that the final selection is representative of both law enforcement and the entire community. This can help promote healing and unity, as everyone has a role to play in honoring the sacrifices of our law enforcement officers.

PLEASE VOTE YES ON HB 2442!

‍