Washington § 71.24.575 - Criminal laws limitations.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 71.24.575 — Criminal laws limitations., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 71.24.575. Criminal laws limitations.

(1) No county, municipality, or other political subdivision may adopt or enforce a local law, ordinance, resolution, or rule having the force of law that includes drinking, being an individual with a substance use disorder, or being found in an intoxicated condition as one of the elements of the offense giving rise to a criminal or civil penalty or sanction.
(2) No county, municipality, or other political subdivision may interpret or apply any law of general application to circumvent the provision of subsection (1) of this section.
(3) Nothing in this chapter affects any law, ordinance, resolution, or rule against drunken driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or other psychoactive chemicals, or other similar offense involving the operation of a vehicle, aircraft, boat, machinery, or other equipment, or regarding the sale, purchase, dispensing, possessing, or use of alcoholic beverages or other psychoactive chemicals at stated times and places or by a particular class of persons; nor shall evidence of intoxication affect, other than as a defense, the application of any law, ordinance, resolution, or rule to conduct otherwise establishing the elements of an offense.
[ 2014 c 225 s 30; 1989 c 270 s 32; 1972 ex.s. c 122 s 19. Formerly RCW 70.96A.190.]

Notes

Effective date—2014 c 225: See note following RCW 71.24.016.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 71.24.575

What does Revised Code of Washington § 71.24.575 cover?

Section 71.24.575 ("Criminal laws limitations.") 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 § 71.24.575?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 71.24.575" (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 § 71.24.575 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.