OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington state House unanimously approved legislation Tuesday that aims to hold graffiti taggers accountable and curb vandalism throughout the state.
House Bill 1800 would provide expanded options for judges in their sentencing of offenders convicted of malicious mischief in the third degree or criminal street gang tagging and graffiti.
In addition to fines and penalties, a judge would also be able to order offenders to perform at least 24 hours of community service, including cleaning up their own graffiti.
The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Andrew Barkis (R-Olympia), said the legislation is more than just about punishment.
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“House Bill 1800 seeks to hold offenders accountable for their actions while also giving them a chance to make amends and choose a better path forward for their lives,” Barkis said in a statement Tuesday after the bill passed by a 97-0 vote. “By implementing community restitution measures, we have the opportunity to not only impose consequences, but also promote community engagement and restoration.”
HB 1800 now heads to the Washington state Senate for consideration.