Make Karen Law accessible in Washington State
The Issue
I have personally been a victim of harassment by an ex-romantic partner, which has led to over 30 police contacts in just six months. These false reports, often dubbed "karen" calls, are not only wasteful but also dangerous. Recognizing this risk, Washington State passed the Karen Law (RCW 4.24.345) following the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests. This law was designed to protect individuals from being harassed by false police reports.
However, the current system is broken. It takes months of legal diligence and thousands of dollars to enforce the Karen Law. This lengthy and costly process stands in stark contrast to the mere seconds and zero cost it takes for someone to make a false report!
Even a King County Judge told me she doesn't like what's happening and specifically researched her power to restrain SPD but said she couldn't find any tools she could use to control the Seattle Police.
By making it so difficult to hold false reporters accountable, the state has unintentionally put victims like myself at a continual risk.
The Karen Law was a step in the right direction, but its effectiveness is severely hampered by inaccessibility. We need reforms to ensure that victims can efficiently and affordably utilize this vital law. Washington State must streamline the legal process associated with RCW 4.24.345, reduce associated costs, and improve access to legal assistance for affected individuals.
Police Forces, regional public defenders and prosecutors should be trained on how to handle cases involving WA's Karen Law.
City's like Seattle should set clear standards for police training and conduct during potential Karen Law cases. Seattle's City Attorney should be empowered to bring Karen Law claims of their own on behalf of victims. Karen Law violations should be treated as an emergency, just like any other form of harassment or domestic violence.
It's imperative that the state acknowledges the real danger posed by false reports and provides a practical solution by making the Karen Law readily accessible to those who truly need it. By doing so, lives and resources can be saved while ensuring the law fulfills its intended purpose.
Please sign this petition to urge Washington State lawmakers to amend the Karen Law, making it more accessible and effective for all.'
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The Issue
I have personally been a victim of harassment by an ex-romantic partner, which has led to over 30 police contacts in just six months. These false reports, often dubbed "karen" calls, are not only wasteful but also dangerous. Recognizing this risk, Washington State passed the Karen Law (RCW 4.24.345) following the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests. This law was designed to protect individuals from being harassed by false police reports.
However, the current system is broken. It takes months of legal diligence and thousands of dollars to enforce the Karen Law. This lengthy and costly process stands in stark contrast to the mere seconds and zero cost it takes for someone to make a false report!
Even a King County Judge told me she doesn't like what's happening and specifically researched her power to restrain SPD but said she couldn't find any tools she could use to control the Seattle Police.
By making it so difficult to hold false reporters accountable, the state has unintentionally put victims like myself at a continual risk.
The Karen Law was a step in the right direction, but its effectiveness is severely hampered by inaccessibility. We need reforms to ensure that victims can efficiently and affordably utilize this vital law. Washington State must streamline the legal process associated with RCW 4.24.345, reduce associated costs, and improve access to legal assistance for affected individuals.
Police Forces, regional public defenders and prosecutors should be trained on how to handle cases involving WA's Karen Law.
City's like Seattle should set clear standards for police training and conduct during potential Karen Law cases. Seattle's City Attorney should be empowered to bring Karen Law claims of their own on behalf of victims. Karen Law violations should be treated as an emergency, just like any other form of harassment or domestic violence.
It's imperative that the state acknowledges the real danger posed by false reports and provides a practical solution by making the Karen Law readily accessible to those who truly need it. By doing so, lives and resources can be saved while ensuring the law fulfills its intended purpose.
Please sign this petition to urge Washington State lawmakers to amend the Karen Law, making it more accessible and effective for all.'
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Petition created on July 27, 2026