Bill > HB1359

This bill establishes a comprehensive task force to review and modernize Washington state laws related to criminal insanity and competency to stand trial. The task force will consist of 36 members representing various stakeholders, including government agencies, courts, prosecutors, defense attorneys, law enforcement, victims' advocates, mental health organizations, and individuals with direct lived experience in the forensic mental health system. The group's primary objectives are to comprehensively review Chapter 10.77 RCW, identify and remove administrative barriers, consider language changes that promote patient-centered terminology, reduce stigma, and improve understanding of competency evaluation processes. The task force is required to make recommendations for law changes that would facilitate diversion, effective treatment, and responsible hospital discharges. All meetings will be held virtually, and the task force must submit its findings and recommendations to the governor and legislature by December 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for recodifying existing statutes and decodifying certain sections of law, with an expiration date of December 31, 2026. The bill will become null and void if specific funding is not provided by June 30, 2025.