Editor,

With the Nov. 6 election right around the corner, I want to offer insights as to the impacts Initiative 940 and Initiative 1639 will have on local and all Washington state law enforcement.

Having listened to several debates and evaluations of these proposals, I stand in opposition to both initiatives.

Voting “no” on I-940 allows law enforcement, citizen advocate groups such as De-Escalate Washington, and legislators to enact better law which will ensure a new standard for the policy and training on the use of force while building public trust in our community and across Washington State.

After the Legislature passed a bill that was accepted by everyone; a court case regarding the process (not the policy) put the original I-940 on the fall ballot. This was an outcome that neither side wanted to happen.

Many community groups along with law enforcement worked countless hours on a compromise agreement clarifying important language intended to become law – much better language than is in the initiative.

Washington state can set an example for our divided nation by coming together on polarizing issues.

I encourage my Island County neighbors to vote “no” on I-940 and then enact HB 3003 which is essentially the agreement strengthening and clarifying the original I-940 language.

It is a ground-breaking compromise and in my opinion very important for continued community trust.

I also ask that you join me in voting “no” on I-1639. The expected outcome of this initiative is well intended; however, there are numerous problems associated with the outcome of its passage.

As the chief executive law enforcement officer for Island County, I question whether my office can meet the expectations of enforcing this measure as written.

Neither I, nor my colleagues of the Washington State Sheriff’s Association, were involved or provided any input into the initiative or the polices created by its text.

As your elected law enforcement officials, we believe we should play a critical role in any process involved in proposing changes to firearms legislation.

This initiative places a greater burden on law-abiding citizens and law enforcement while creating no additional accountability for criminals.

Please join me in voting “no on I-1639.

Mark Brown

Island County sheriff