Maycumber bill to help local law enforcement crack down on auto theft passes House

The Washington state House of Representatives passed legislation today that will direct more funding toward local law enforcement efforts to combat auto theft.

House Bill 1682 removes confinement costs as an allowable use of funds for the Washington Auto Theft Prevention Account, effectively increasing resources available to counter the dramatic increase in auto thefts.

“Statewide auto thefts have increased by 93% since the summer of 2021,” said Rep. Jacquelin Maycumber, R-Republic and sponsor of the bill. “When an auto theft occurs it takes away our ability to live our lives. For many of us, our vehicles are our lifeline. They allow us to go to work, take our kids to school, and get to much-needed medical appointments. In recent news, auto theft has resulted in heartbreaking tragedies. It is endangering lives and costing our citizens time and money while providing many substance abusers and career criminals an easy financial score.

“My bill provides more money for the prevention, investigation, and prosecution of auto theft at the local level,” said Maycumber. “We need to give local authorities the tools needed to push back against the incessant rise in crime our communities are facing.”

Maycumber's bill passed the House 94-1 and now goes to the Senate for further consideration.

The 105-day 2023 legislative session ends April 23.

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov