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We’re working to repeal Washington’s jaywalking laws and protect pedestrians

It’s time for Washington’s harmful jaywalking laws to go!

Jaywalking laws don’t protect pedestrians from getting hit by cars; are disproportionately enforced against low-income people, people of color, and unhoused individuals; and are an inefficient use of police resources.

How We Got Here

More than a century ago, Spokane, Washington, passed an anti-jaywalking law in 1918 that made crossing the street outside a designated crosswalk a punishable offense. A decade later, most cities and towns across Washington state enacted similar laws criminalizing jaywalking.

FACT

The term “jaywalking” started as a slur meaning an unintelligent, rural person who didn’t know how to navigate city life.

Have you or someone you know been impacted by jaywalking enforcement?

We’re looking for Washingtonians who’ve been stopped for jaywalking and want to share their stories.

3 Reasons to Repeal Washington’s Jaywalking Laws

SAFETY

Contrary to popular belief, jaywalking laws don’t keep pedestrians safe. ​

Equity

Race informs who gets stopped for jaywalking.

efficiency

Repealing jaywalking laws preserves public resources.

PLACES that Have Repealed Their Jaywalking Laws

Data Shows Jaywalking Laws Disproportionately Enforced Against Black People

Washington state isn’t the only place disproportionately targeting Black people for jaywalking. From San Diego, California, to Atlanta, Georgia, police issue an inordinate percentage of jaywalking tickets to Black residents.

GET INVOLVED

Join our efforts to repeal Washington’s jaywalking laws by endorsing the Free to Walk Washington campaign, signing up for action alerts, or sharing your jaywalking story with us!

Raise your voice.

Share your thoughts on why YOU think it’s time for Washington to repeal its jaywalking laws using the hashtag, #FreetoWalkWA.

OUR COALITION

Join us in the fight to repeal Washington’s jaywalking laws and protect pedestrians