Graham bill would prohibit early release for criminals committing gun violence

'This bill sends a message to violent criminals who commit gun violence that we will hold them accountable for their violent actions,' says Graham

Legislation introduced in Olympia today would prohibit early release for criminals convicted of offenses containing firearm enhancements.

The bill's sponsor, Rep. Jenny Graham, says this change is needed to combat the rise in violent crime and the shift from many elected officials that favor the rights and concerns of criminals over those of victims.

“Over the last few years that I've been in elected office we've seen attitudes toward violent criminals shift in an alarming way,” said Graham, R-Spokane. “We've seen legislation to reduce sentences for violent murderers and rapists, proposals to reduce penalties for drive-by-shootings, and bills to make it harder for law enforcement to effectively protect our communities. We need some common sense to prevail and bring back balance to our criminal justice system.”

Graham's proposal, House Bill 2094, specifically prohibits convicted criminals from earning early release credits if the committed violent offense includes a firearm enhancement.

“We can't rail against gun violence on one hand, then give early release to violent criminals committing crimes with firearms on the other. The public expects government to keep them safe. However, violent crime is rising and many of our families and communities don't feel safe at the moment,” said Graham. “This bill sends a message to violent criminals who commit gun violence that we will hold them accountable for their violent actions. It also sends a message to our communities that their elected leaders take their security seriously and want to keep them safe.”

Graham's bill was referred to the House Public Safety Committee for further action.

The remote, 60-day 2022 legislative session began on Jan. 10.

###

Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov