HB 2015 Funding Approved

Kent, Wash. - The City of Kent has become the first city in Washington State to receive formal approval from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) under ESHB 2015, landmark legislation enacted in 2025 to strengthen public safety funding and accountability statewide.

With this approval, Kent can move forward with implementing the 0.1% local sales tax authorized under HB 2015, funding the City will use primarily to hire, retain, and deploy more police officers on Kent streets.

HB 2015 establishes a new local funding tool and a $100 million state Local Law Enforcement Grant Program designed to address officer shortages and rebuild police staffing levels across Washington. Kent is the first jurisdiction to meet the state's required policy, training, and compliance standards to access both the local revenue option and state grant funding.

"This is about putting more officers on the street and improving response times," said Mayor Dana Ralph. "Our community expects visible patrols, quick 911 response, and proactive policing. This funding allows us to strengthen our police force and deliver the level of service our residents deserve."

To qualify for HB 2015 funding, jurisdictions must meet rigorous standards established by the CJTC, including updated use-of-force policies, training compliance, reporting requirements, and accountability benchmarks. Kent completed the detailed verification process within strict statutory timelines, becoming the first city approved under the new law.

Police Chief Rafael Padilla emphasized that the City's focus is clear.

"Our priority is staffing," said Police Chief Rafael Padilla. "Kent needs more officers to respond to calls for service, investigate crimes, and maintain a visible presence in our neighborhoods. HB 2015 gives us the ability to rebuild and strengthen our department in a responsible, sustainable way. I also want to recognize and thank City Attorney Tammy White, Deputy Chief Stansfield, Assistant Chief Grove, Assistant Chief Hemmen and Assistant Chief Kasner for the tremendous amount of work they put into meeting the state's requirements. Their professionalism and dedication were instrumental in achieving this approval."

Under HB 2015, the 0.1% sales tax revenue will be dedicated to criminal justice purposes, with Kent prioritizing:

• Hiring and retaining law enforcement officers

• Reducing 911 response times

• Strengthening patrol and investigative capacity

The state grant program may fund up to 75% of entry-level officer salaries and benefits for up to 36 months, accelerating the City's ability to recruit and deploy new officers.

"This approval means real, tangible improvements in public safety," Mayor Ralph added. "This is a significant step towards having more officers who not only respond when residents call 911, but who will now have more capacity to be a visible presence to help prevent crime from occurring in the first place. Kent is taking action."

Kent will report annually on the use of HB 2015 revenues, consistent with statutory requirements and legislative oversight.

As the first city approved under the new law, Kent is leading the way in using HB 2015 to directly strengthen front-line law enforcement services.

Media Contact

Assistant Chief Jarod Kasner

[email protected]