Bill > HB1982

This bill addresses historical injustices against Indian tribal members by expanding provisions to vacate convictions related to treaty rights. Specifically, the bill allows tribal members (or their family members/tribal representatives if deceased) to have convictions vacated for fishing, hunting, gathering, or pasturing activities that were part of their treaty rights. The legislature acknowledges that during North American settlement, treaties with Indian tribal nations were not always honored, and this bill is part of an effort to address past wrongs. The bill requires courts to vacate these convictions if the person is a member of a tribe with treaty rights in the location of the offense and if the state has been legally enjoined from enforcing regulations that interfere with those treaty rights. Additionally, the bill creates a new position in the Office of Public Defense for a tribal liaison counsel who will perform outreach, develop educational materials, and provide direct representation to tribal members seeking to vacate these specific types of convictions. The goal is to spread awareness, support affected tribal members, and promote better relationships between the state and Indian tribal governments.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1982&Year=2025&Initiative=false