New training for school police passes Senate

OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington Senate has voted in favor of new training for police officers stationed in schools around the state.

The proposal would require training in the constitutional rights of children in school settings, cultural competency and bias, youth de-escalation, and the potential ripple effects of arresting a student, among other subjects. It would also establish a grant program to help pay for the training.

Lawmakers voted 48-0 in favor of the bill Tuesday.

The proposal is part of a package of school safety reforms put forward by Democrats in the Legislature, along with proposals for enhanced mental health resources in schools and an expansion of risk protection order laws.

Republican Senators supported Tuesday's bill. But some Republicans in the state House have questioned the larger safety package and proposed promoting defensive architecture on school campuses and allowing teachers to carry guns.