Walsh opposes bill proposing harsher penalties for 'threatening words' than fentanyl possession

Jan 16, 2024
Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, shares his opposition to a bill that would impose a more severe criminal penalty for "threatening words" than for the possession of fentanyl. While emphasizing the importance of not tolerating harassment in Washington state and ensuring a system that protects individuals from such behavior, Walsh asserts that creating criminal penalties for threatening words could weaponize government action against those with dissenting opinions. He argues that this approach grants special status to "threatening words," elevating them above other tangible threats to the well-being of Washingtonians.