Bill > SB6239

This bill establishes a new process for adjudicating tort claims, which are civil lawsuits seeking compensation for damages caused by wrongful acts, against the state of Washington and its local governments. A new "claims commission" will be created within the Office of Administrative Hearings to handle these claims, particularly those involving personal injury from tortious conduct (specific acts or omissions causing harm) that occurred 10 or more years ago, or when the claimant turned 18, whichever is later. For claims arising more recently, individuals can choose to go through the commission or directly to court, but filing in court first and then in the commission will lead to the court case being dismissed. The commission will be composed of various representatives, including those from the Attorney General's office, victim advocacy, mental health, government agencies, counties, school districts, and the Office of Financial Management. Claimants will have two tracks: an "expedited examiner track" with a lower filing fee and a quicker, less formal resolution, or a "hearing track" with a higher filing fee and a more formal process involving neutral hearing officers who are experienced judges or former administrative law judges trained in trauma-informed practices. The bill also makes changes to existing laws regarding how claims are paid, how the state is represented in legal proceedings, and the administration of risk management funds, aiming to provide a fairer, more efficient, and trauma-informed process for survivors seeking accountability and resolution for harm caused by government actions.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6239&Year=2025&Initiative=false