Bill > HB1945

This bill establishes a new office of the crime victims ombuds, which will be operated by a private, independent nonprofit organization contracted through the Washington State Department of Commerce. The ombuds office will be selected via a competitive bidding process that includes stakeholder consultation, with the chosen organization required to have experience communicating about crime victims' issues. The ombuds will have several key responsibilities, including providing information about crime victims' rights, referring victims to appropriate justice and assistance programs, investigating complaints about victim services, monitoring service delivery procedures, recommending systemic improvements, and maintaining strict confidentiality of records and complainant identities. The Department of Commerce must ensure the ombuds staff receives appropriate training and support. Additionally, the bill mandates a comprehensive survey by the Department of Commerce's office of crime victims advocacy to assess the most effective placement and operation of the ombuds office, with findings to be submitted to the governor and legislature by December 30, 2026. The office is designed to complement existing legal rights and procedures, and is set to expire on July 1, 2027, ensuring a periodic review of its effectiveness and continued relevance.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1945&Year=2025&Initiative=false