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flag Washington's jail oversight bill failed, leaving the state without enforceable standards for local jails.

flag Washington’s Senate Bill 5005, which would have created a statewide oversight system for local jails, died in the legislature after being significantly weakened. flag The bill aimed to establish an independent body to enforce standards, conduct mandatory inspections, and improve conditions for pretrial detainees, many of whom suffer from untreated mental health issues and substance withdrawal. flag Opponents, including law enforcement and county groups, argued the original proposal was burdensome, leading to a stripped-down version that created a non-binding jail council without enforcement power. flag The state remains one of only 12 without enforceable jail standards, despite documented deaths, injuries, and safety failures. flag Advocates warn the lack of oversight increases legal risks and harms public safety, especially given that nearly 80% of inmates are awaiting trial.

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