OLYMPIA, May 19, 2021 — With a dozen police reform measures now signed into law, the Washington

Fraternal Order of Police (WAFOP) today reaffirmed their disappointment in several aspects of

these bills but remains committed to collaboratively implementing the new policies and

restoring trust in the profession of law enforcement.

WAFOP President Marco Monteblanco said the reforms approved this legislative session reflect

the changing nature of policing, both in Washington state and across the country.

“The Washington Fraternal Order of Police and the 3,200 law enforcement officers we

represent recognize the need for change within the law enforcement profession in order to

rebuild the public’s trust in what we as peace officers do every day,” said Monteblanco. “In the

wake of a multitude of well-publicized events here in Washington and across the country, it was

inevitable that the 2021 session of the Legislature would produce significant changes to state

law governing the way in which we go about our day-to-day work. Recognizing the changing

realities governing our work, challenging our own comfort level with the status quo, being

willing to pivot, and move forward to help shape community-driven changes is the best

approach.

“While we disagree with several provisions of the bills signed by the governor, this approach is

what’s necessary to begin rebuilding the trust, confidence and relationships we need within the

communities we serve. We have chosen to engage and connect with community organizations,

victims’ advocacy groups, and lawmakers themselves to seek common ground without unduly

compromising the ability of our members and all peace officers to do their jobs,” he added.

“While we did not support much of the legislation put forward in the 2021 session, the WAFOP

appreciates the efforts of lawmakers who sought to understand the concerns of the rank-andfile peace officers as part of the Legislature’s deliberations worked hard to make sure the

concerns of officers in the field were a part of the discussions. The real work now begins as we

take up these changes and start to ingrain them in our practice as professionals in the

communities we serve.”

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