OLYMPIA — A groundbreaking bill aimed at advancing justice and protecting human rights was signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee Tuesday.
Senate Bill 6009, sponsored by Sen. Yasmin Trudeau (D-Tacoma), prohibits the dangerous and inhumane practice of hog-tying by law enforcement officers.
The bill establishes that hog-tying constitutes the use of excessive force, a practice that has tragically resulted in lives lost, including that of Manuel Ellis, a 33-year-old Black man who died as a victim of this dangerous technique by police nearly four years ago despite never being accused of or charged with a crime. Ellis’s death was ruled a homicide caused by lack of oxygen. This motivated Trudeau — who represents the 27th Legislative District and Tacoma, the city where Ellis died — to prevent this from happening to others and ensure accountability when it does.
“In our pursuit of community trust, we must confront ugly truths and address historical injustices,” Trudeau said. “This new law represents a crucial step forward in safeguarding the rights of every person. We must work to rebuild trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve, and eliminating harmful practices that increase the risk of death is part of that process.”
This new law underscores a commitment to upholding human dignity and aligns Washington state with other jurisdictions that have recognized its inherent risks. The Department of Justice has long recommended its elimination, and the Attorney General’s Office’s use-of-force model policy advises against it, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of all people while also ensuring community safety is prioritized.
The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.
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