For decades, a Washington law has empowered prosecutors to pursue felony charges against those who assault healthcare workers. Which, on a base level, makes sense. Healthcare workers don’t want to be harmed while doing their jobs.

But some are worried that a potential felony charge – which would apply to both physical attacks, and typically minor offenses like spitting on someone – doesn’t prevent those attacks from happening and moves those with severe mental health challenges into a criminal justice system that worsens their condition. 

That’s led state lawmakers to propose an adjustment to the law broadening the penalties for those who assault healthcare workers – which would exempt people experiencing mental health crisis.

The bill – HB 1220 – passed out of committee last week and is now headed to the full House. 

Seattle Times’ investigative reporter Sydney Brownstone has been following the story. 

Guests:

• Sydney Brownstone, investigative reporter for the Seattle Times

Related Links: 

• Health care worker assault law could see reform this year | The Seattle Times
• A law to protect WA health care workers keeps patients in crisis | The Seattle Times
• Find HB 1220 here

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