House approves Dye’s wild horse inmate training bill
By Dan Thesman on Friday, February 16th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
OLYMPIA – A bill written by Rep. Mary Dye (R-Pomeroy) that would direct the Department of Corrections to conduct a feasibility study and develop a plan for implementing a wild horse training, holding, and farrier program at a state corrections center passed the state House Tuesday.
Dye said House Bill 2210 is much broader than similar bills introduced to the Legislature in past years. This latest bill is much broader so that DOC can study and create a plan for a program at the most appropriate correctional facility. Walla Walla Community College and the Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla have agreed to do a feasibility study.
“If the population is not appropriate for that area, this bill would allow another facility to be considered,” Dye said.
The bill also requires the DOC to develop a partnership with WWCC for the purpose of establishing a course for qualifying participants to obtain a farrier certificate to be completed in conjunction with the wild horse training program. The course may also include a business basics class or component to assist participants with managing their farrier careers following their release. The bill has been moved to the Senate for further consideration.
