Washington § 38.08.040 - Governor may order out organized militia.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 38.08.040 — Governor may order out organized militia., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 38.08.040. Governor may order out organized militia.

In event of war, insurrection, rebellion, invasion, tumult, riot, mob, or organized body acting together by force with intent to commit a felony or to offer violence to persons or property, or by force and violence to break and resist the laws of this state, or the United States, or in case of the imminent danger of the occurrence of any of said events, or at the lawful request of competent state or local authority in support of enforcement of controlled substance statutes, or whenever responsible civil authorities shall, for any reason, fail to preserve law and order, or protect life or property, or the governor believes that such failure is imminent, or in event of public disaster, or when otherwise required for the public health, safety, or welfare, or to perform any military duty authorized by state law, or to prepare for or recover from any of these events or the consequences thereof, the governor shall have power to order the organized militia of Washington, or any part thereof, into active service of the state to execute the laws, and to perform such duty as the governor shall deem proper.
[ 2005 c 9 s 1; 1993 c 263 s 1; 1989 c 19 s 7; 1943 c 130 s 6; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 8603-6. Prior: 1917 c 107 s 7; 1913 c 66 s 2; 1909 c 134 s 15.]

Notes

Effective date—2005 c 9: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 28, 2005]." [ 2005 c 9 s 3.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 38.08.040

What does Revised Code of Washington § 38.08.040 cover?

Section 38.08.040 ("Governor may order out organized militia.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 38.08.040?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 38.08.040" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 38.08.040 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.