OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A controversial new law targeting our state’s sheriffs has hit another roadblock.

In a signed order submitted on Tuesday, May 5, state Supreme Court Deputy Commissioner Walter Burton denied a request to restore the new law, of which some parts were supposed to take effect last week.

A judge in Thurston County put a temporary hold on the law following a suit filed by four sheriffs. State officials moved to keep parts of the law intact while the lawsuit moved forward.

But in his motion, Deputy Commissioner Burton said that ruling in favor of the state would cause more issues if the overall result of the lawsuit goes in favor of the sheriffs.

Many law enforcement officials, including Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell Tanksley, have argued that the new law strips voters of their rights if a sheriff is removed by a proposed state board. The new law also updates requirements to hold top positions, such as sheriff, police chief or town marshal.