Reduced sentences, increased risk

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House Bill 1178 seeks to roll back key sentencing enhancements, making it easier for violent criminals, drug offenders, and gang members to receive reduced sentences and early release. Instead of holding offenders accountable, this bill prioritizes leniency over public safety.

Eliminates sentencing enhancements for drug crimes near schools – HB 1178 would remove additional penalties for drug-related offenses committed near schools, parks, and public housing, eliminating protections for vulnerable communities.

Reduces penalties for gang-related crimes involving minors – Under this bill, criminals who recruit or exploit minors for gang-related felonies will no longer face enhanced sentences, weakening a critical tool for combating gang violence.

Allows early release for armed criminals – Firearm and deadly weapon enhancements, which were designed to keep armed offenders off the streets longer, would be eligible for early release and partial confinement.

Judicial discretion or soft sentencing? – HB 1178 would remove the requirement that firearm and deadly weapon enhancements be served consecutively, allowing judges to run sentences concurrently and significantly reducing time served.

Less accountability, more risk: Washingtonians deserve policies that deter crime and protect communities—not laws that make it easier for violent offenders to walk free.

House Bill 1178 seeks to roll back key sentencing enhancements, making it easier for violent criminals, drug offenders, and gang members to receive reduced sentences and early release. Instead of holding offenders accountable, this bill prioritizes leniency over public safety.

Eliminates sentencing enhancements for drug crimes near schools – HB 1178 would remove additional penalties for drug-related offenses committed near schools, parks, and public housing, eliminating protections for vulnerable communities.

Reduces penalties for gang-related crimes involving minors – Under this bill, criminals who recruit or exploit minors for gang-related felonies will no longer face enhanced sentences, weakening a critical tool for combating gang violence.

Allows early release for armed criminals – Firearm and deadly weapon enhancements, which were designed to keep armed offenders off the streets longer, would be eligible for early release and partial confinement.

Judicial discretion or soft sentencing? – HB 1178 would remove the requirement that firearm and deadly weapon enhancements be served consecutively, allowing judges to run sentences concurrently and significantly reducing time served.

Less accountability, more risk: Washingtonians deserve policies that deter crime and protect communities—not laws that make it easier for violent offenders to walk free.

Share your story!

Have you or someone you know been impacted by violent crime, gang activity, or drug offenses near schools? House Bill 1178 weakens sentencing laws that help keep our communities safe. Share your story and let lawmakers know why this bill is the wrong move.

We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Personal stories like yours help highlight the real impact of policies like House Bill 1178. Lawmakers may share your story on the House floor or in committee discussions as they debate this bill. Thank you for standing up for public safety and making your voice heard.

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Page last updated: 26 Feb 2025, 11:37 AM