NEWPORT, Wash – Washington sheriffs who want to block a new law regarding their powers in the state will have the first chance to present their case Thursday morning.
Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels filed the case, along with sheriffs from Pend Oreille, Stevens and Ferry Counties.
They’re asking a judge to block implementation of what began as Senate Bill 5974.
Governor Bob Ferguson signed the bill into law, which gives an oversight board the power to remove elected sheriffs from office.
This lawsuit and another filed by the Washington State Sheriff’s Association says the law takes power away from Washington voters.
The complaint filed in Pend Oreille County calls the law unconstitutional, saying it “alters who decides may seek the office of sheriff, whether a sheriff may take office-and whether a sheriff may remain in office at all.”
Supporters of the legislation say it is another mechanism to hold law enforcement accountable.
The first hearing on the case is set for Thursday afternoon in Pend Oreille County.
The parties want the judge to halt implementation of the law and could also ask for a change of venue.
It’s not clear if the judge will make any decisions on the case Thursday or take the arguments under advisement.
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