Manion Bill to Address Gender-based Violence Approved by Washington Legislature
On Wednesday, April 9, one of King County Prosecuting Attorney Leesa Manion’s priority bills to enhance protections for survivors of gender-based violence was approved by the House after clearing the Senate earlier this year. Now that SB 5202 has passed the full legislature, it will head to Governor Ferguson’s desk for signature.
“SB 5202 makes common sense fixes to Washington’s protection order statute and enhances protections for survivors,” King County Prosecuting Attorney Leesa Manion said. “The Washington legislature has made vital improvements for survivors in need of court ordered protections. This bill builds on that important work.”
King County Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kim Wyatt and Program Manager for the Regional Domestic Violence Firearms Enforcement Unit Sandra Shanahan testified in support of SB 5202 on January 20 [1:04:55 minute mark].
What’s the issue?
In 2021, the Washington State legislature enacted HB 1320, which overhauled civil protection order laws to increase access to justice, modernize and align the laws from multiple statutes into one consolidated chapter and established a universal petition.
The implementation of HB 1320 has been very successful but the process has revealed the need for technical fixes to further improve Washington’s protection order statute and ensure additional alignment with the legislative intent of increased access to justice and enhanced protection for those experiencing harm.
How will SB 5202 help address gender-based violence?
SB 5202 ensures prosecutors have the information they need to notify survivors when their abuser has petitioned to restore their firearm rights or when their abuser is ordered to relinquish their firearms.
It also ensures abusers face swift consequences if they are found with an undetectable or un-serialized firearm while prohibited.
This bill empowers survivors by providing clear processes to modify or terminate their ex parte orders if circumstances have changed.
And, SB 5202 allows newly adult children to seek renewal of these orders by offering a trauma-informed pathway to continued protection and healing.
