Burnett to help shape national public safety policy

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

The appointment, which is extended to only two legislators from each state, ensures North Central Washington will have a voice in national conversations on crime, law enforcement, and community safety, areas where local experience plays a critical role in shaping effective policy.

The committee brings together legislators and policy experts from across the country to collaborate on emerging issues, share best practices, and develop policy positions that guide NCSL's advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C.

Burnett said the appointment builds on his decades of experience in law enforcement and his work in the Legislature.

"Public safety is about protecting people who cannot protect themselves. After decades in law enforcement, I have sat with victims and seen the real consequences when the system fails, said Burnett. "That perspective is something I will carry with me into this role, and I will continue fighting for policies that put victims first and hold offenders accountable."

Before joining the Legislature, Burnett served more than 30 years in law enforcement, including 12 years as Chelan County sheriff, where he focused on protecting communities and supporting victims.

He said the NCSL role provides an opportunity to both contribute and learn.

"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. If there are better ways to protect victims, support law enforcement, and keep communities safe, we should be learning from them and applying that here at home."

As a member of the committee, Burnett will participate in policy discussions, collaborate with legislators nationwide, and help develop positions on key state-federal issues related to law enforcement and public safety.

He emphasized the importance of ensuring Washington's perspective is represented in national policy conversations.

"When decisions are made in Washington, D.C., they don't stay there; they impact our communities," said Burnett. "This role gives me the opportunity to speak up for the people I represent and push for policies that actually make a difference on the ground."

Committee members are appointed to two-year terms and play a key role in shaping NCSL's policy priorities and advocacy efforts.