Bill > HB1228

This bill modifies existing laws regarding toxicology testing, primarily concerning driving under the influence (DUI) cases, by allowing accredited laboratories to perform analysis in addition to individuals certified by the state toxicologist. Specifically, it updates the legal standard for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and THC concentration, clarifies that blood and breath analyses must be performed by either a state-approved individual or a laboratory certified to the ISO/IEC 17025 standard for forensic toxicology testing, and outlines conditions for out-of-state laboratories to conduct these tests, including allowing pretrial interviews and virtual trial appearances for expert witnesses. The bill also makes minor adjustments to the required observation period before breath tests and the acceptable temperature range for simulator solutions, and it mandates a report from the Washington State Patrol by October 1, 2031, detailing the implementation of these changes and any remaining backlogs in toxicology testing, with this reporting requirement expiring on January 1, 2032.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1228&Year=2025&Initiative=false