Dem lawmakers propose removing English language requirement for Washington police, firefighters to 'promote diversification,' address staffing shortages

Dem lawmakers propose removing English language requirement for Washington police, firefighters to 'promote diversification,' address staffing shortages

Several Democratic lawmakers in Washington state proposed a bill that would open up law enforcement and firefighter applicant eligibility to those who cannot read or write English.The proposed legislation, SB 5274, would remove the English language requirement for city police officers, firefighters, fish and wildlife officers, and individuals applying for positions with the sheriff's office.According to state Senator Javier Valdez (D) and ten ot…