Bill > SB5773

This bill aims to improve the quality of public defense services in Washington state. It amends existing laws to require counties and cities to meet certain criteria to receive state funding, such as ensuring attorneys attend annual training, reporting expenditures and case statistics, and demonstrating compliance with indigent defense standards. The bill also establishes a gradual increase in the state's share of public defense costs, from 10% in 2024 to 50% by 2028 and beyond. Additionally, the Office of Public Defense is tasked with examining and making recommendations to reduce caseloads and backlog, as well as increase retention of experienced public defenders in high-need areas.