SEATTLE - Despite lower crime rates in Seattle, the increase in gang violence is gaining the attention of state lawmakers.

They're planning to propose new laws to curb gang activity.

The focus is on Seattle's Central District where gang members are getting younger, more tech-savvy and more violent.

In the past four months, three teenagers with ties to the Central District have been gunned down. The police gang unit is investigating.

A recent FBI sweep of the Central District turned up many weapons.

Police say Seattle gangs have changed since the 80s and 90s. They use the Internet to recruit and they have enhanced communications.

Recently added to YouTube is a Seattle gang video featuring the Deuce 8s claiming their turf at 28th and Jackson. At that same address, Central District kids walk past Deuce 8's graffiti reading "rest in peace."

"With multiple text messaging, throw-away phones, computers, they're smarter, tech-advanced, more business-oriented, but much more violence-oriented," said Police Chief Gil Kerlikowske.

At the state capitol, Seattle's gang problem is being noticed. On Monday, lawmakers will introduce proposed gang-fighting laws. They would forbid gang members to assemble in high-crime areas, start a statewide gang information database, and increase sentences for adults 18 and up who recruit gang members.

Overall, violent crime in Seattle is down, but at a time when grade school kids are being recruited, state lawmakers are getting ready to step in to fight gangs.

The proposed anti-gang laws come after a three-year study by police and lawmakers into gang violence.