The bill reinstates the indigent defense task force in Washington, which was originally established through legislation in 1988 and 1989. The task force is tasked with studying the current system for providing legal representation to individuals who cannot afford counsel. It will consist of various appointed members, including representatives from the governor's office, the state supreme court, the Washington State Bar Association, and legislative leaders. The task force is required to review the existing methods of providing indigent defense, assess the impacts of current staffing levels, and explore alternative delivery systems, with a report due by January 1, 2025.

Additionally, the bill outlines the support structure for the task force, including staff assistance from the office of public defense and legislative support services. It specifies reimbursement policies for travel expenses for legislative members and allows the task force to contract with experts as needed, contingent on specific appropriations. The task force is set to expire on June 30, 2026, and the bill declares an emergency, taking effect immediately to ensure the timely establishment of the task force.