SPOKANE, Wash. – Several laws in Washington will go into effect starting July 1, effecting thousands of residents in the state.
The Washington bill that passed on ‘sexually protective devices’ would prevent anyone from removing or tampering devices in a nonconsensual manner. As described in the House Bill 1958 a ‘sexually protective device’ is “an internal or external condom, spermicide, diaphragm, cervical cap, ” and other devices intended to prevent pregnancy.
Penalties of this offense include a person bringing a civil lawsuit with a range of damages to be paid to the victim.
Another bill passed that begins its effectiveness is the hospital staffing standards that aims to improve workplace environment and standards.
Senate Bill 5236 making it standards for meal and break times for hospital staff more available with more staffing now required.
The Tribal Opioid Prevention and Treatment Account takes effect on Monday after finding that ‘American Indians and Alaska Natives are affected disproportionately by the opioid crisis, ” the bill said.
The bill will receive settlement funds to support the efforts in prevention, treatment and education.
Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed these into action to take effect immediately.
