Fourth District Rep. Leonard Christian, R-Spokane Valley, released the following statement after the House majority party blocked a motion to bring House Bill 1363 – bipartisan legislation concerning vehicular pursuits – to the floor for a vote.

“Crime is skyrocketing, businesses are closing, Washington state citizens are dying, and time is quickly running out. It’s our solemn duty, as elected officials, to protect the lives and property of citizens in Washington state. But without this critical tool, law enforcement officers cannot do their jobs and keep us safe.  

“Just last week, two children were killed by a drunk driver in Sunnyside because state troopers were not allowed to engage in pursuit. Two young lives, gone forever, because the majority party is prioritizing the interest of criminals over the rest of society.

“We cannot allow this dangerous, anti-police experiment to remain on the books for another year. I am urging the House Democratic leadership to reverse course and pass House Bill 1363 over to the Senate.

“This issue is too important to wait. We must act now.”