Burnett appointed to national public safety policy panel

WENATCHEE — State Rep. Brian Burnett, R-Wenatchee, has been appointed to the Law and Public Safety Committee of the National Conference of State Legislatures, a national panel focused on public safety policy and coordination between states and the federal government.

The committee includes legislators from across the country and develops policy positions that inform NCSL’s advocacy at the federal level, particularly on issues such as criminal justice policy, law enforcement practices and community safety initiatives.

Burnett is one of two lawmakers from Washington selected to serve on the committee, alongside Roger Goodman, D-Kirkland.

His appointment comes early in his legislative tenure and reflects a background that is relatively uncommon among state lawmakers. Nationally, only a small fraction of legislators have professional experience in law enforcement, a factor that often shapes appointments to public safety-focused panels.

Before joining the Legislature, Burnett spent more than 30 years in law enforcement, including 12 years as Chelan County sheriff, where he oversaw patrol operations, investigations and jail management in a largely rural county.

In a statement, Burnett said the role builds on that experience.

“Public safety is about protecting people who cannot protect themselves,” Burnett said. “After decades in law enforcement, I have sat with victims and seen the real consequences when the system fails. That perspective is something I will carry with me into this role.”

He said the position will allow him to share Washington’s experience while also learning from other states, particularly as legislatures grapple with questions around policing standards, crime trends and victim services.

“I’m looking forward to taking what we’ve learned here in Washington and sharing it with other states, but just as important is bringing back ideas that work,” Burnett said.

Members of the committee collaborate on policy discussions related to law enforcement and community safety and may contribute to testimony, policy guidance and intergovernmental coordination on state-federal issues. Appointments are for two-year terms.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media