Judge blocks Washington's new sheriff standards law

Washington’s new law setting stricter eligibility standards for sheriffs was partially blocked in state court on Wednesday, one day before much of it was set to take effect.

The preliminary decision from a Thurston County Superior Court judge came in response to a lawsuit four eastern Washington sheriffs filed against the state.

Senate Bill 5974 established new, equal standards for county sheriffs, who are usually elected, and police chiefs, who are appointed. Failing to meet the new requirements or getting state certification revoked is grounds for removal from office under the new law.

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The state plans to appeal the ruling.

https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2026/04/29/judge-blocks-washingtons-new-sheriff-standards-law/