Lawsuit aims to block new eligibility requirements for WA sheriffs
Four eastern Washington sheriffs filed suit Friday seeking to block a new law that provides a path to remove sheriffs from office.
The sheriffs — John Nowels of Spokane County, Glenn Blakeslee of Pend Oreille County, Brad Manke of Stevens County and Ray Maycumber of Ferry County — believe the law is undemocratic and should be tossed out. They argue the state constitution doesn’t give the Legislature the power to create a removal process like the one envisioned.
The law, which Gov. Bob Ferguson signed Wednesday, sets heightened eligibility requirements for sheriffs, who are mostly elected in Washington. Sheriffs could be forced from office if they don’t meet the new standards.
The quartet of sheriffs argue Senate Bill 5974 “does not merely regulate how sheriffs perform their duties. Instead, it conditions eligibility to run for, assume, and remain in office on compliance with a statewide administrative certification regime.”
https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2026/04/03/lawsuit-aims-to-block-new-eligibility-requirements-for-wa-sheriffs/
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