Bill > HB1909

This bill establishes the Court Unification Task Force to comprehensively analyze Washington state's court system and address inefficiencies and inequities across local court jurisdictions. The task force will include a diverse 30-member group representing various stakeholders, such as legislative members, judicial branch representatives, city and county officials, legal professionals, community advocates, and individuals with lived experience in the court system. The task force is charged with examining disparities in local court rules, technology adoption, and funding levels that create barriers for people seeking legal help, particularly in rural areas or for those experiencing poverty. The group will form issue-specific subcommittees to deeply investigate areas like court information technology, funding, rural court challenges, and court services. The task force must hold its first meeting by October 1, 2025, and complete its work by December 31, 2028, with requirements to submit a preliminary report by June 30, 2026, and a final report by June 30, 2027. The final report must propose specific solutions for improving court efficiency, harmonizing conflicting policies, and include a long-term strategic implementation plan. The task force will be co-chaired by the chair of the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and will be reimbursed for travel expenses to ensure inclusive representation.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1909&Year=2025&Initiative=false