WA lawmakers move treatment over jail time to the House
Democratic lawmakers in Olympia are working on a strategy to tackle drug possession that balances law enforcement and diversion.
Senate Bill 5536 would allow people with substance use disorder an opportunity to choose treatment over jail time.
But supporters say it will require a major investment for an airtight plan. And time is of the essence, the current law on the books expires this summer.
KUOW reporter Amy Radil joins us today to walk us through where the senate bill is at today.
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Patricia Murphy
Host
Patricia Murphy is an award-winning radio journalist who has covered justice, public health, military and veterans affairs for 20 years. She’s currently the host of KUOW’s daily news podcast, Seattle Now.
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Brandi Fullwood
Senior Producer
Brandi Fullwood is a senior producer for KUOW’s midday show Soundside. She joined KUOW in 2019 as a producer on The Record and was promoted to her current position in 2021. She has produced a range of stories from dinosaur experts to misinformation in the 2020 election. They’ve also produced and reported pieces for other KUOW programs like Seattle Now.
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