The bill amends existing water rights adjudication laws in Washington by introducing new provisions for the appointment and responsibilities of water commissioners. It allows superior courts in each county to appoint one or more attorneys as water commissioners to assist in adjudicating water rights. These appointments require a majority vote from the judges and can be full-time or part-time positions. The bill mandates that appointed commissioners receive training on water law, Indian law, water science, and cultural awareness, which may be developed in collaboration with academic institutions.

Additionally, the bill expands the powers of water commissioners in adjudications, allowing them to appoint guardians ad litem, hold evidentiary hearings, issue decisions, and enter judgments, all subject to revision by the superior court. It also modifies existing legal language regarding the appointment of referees in water adjudications, clarifying that consent from parties is not required for a court-appointed referee to hear matters related to water rights. The bill aims to streamline the adjudication process and enhance the expertise of those involved in water rights cases.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 4.48.020, 90.03.160
Substitute Bill: 90.03.160
Engrossed Substitute: 2.24.050
Bill as Passed Legislature: 2.24.050
Session Law: 2.24.050