The bill aims to provide financial support to rural counties in Washington state to help them manage the costs associated with new legal requirements for coroners and medical examiners that will take effect in 2025. It recognizes the unique revenue challenges faced by these counties and intends to fully fund the additional independent coroner costs for a period of six fiscal years, from 2025 to 2030. This funding will allow rural counties to prepare for these costs, which they will need to cover at the county level starting in 2031.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 36.16.030 to include provisions that ensure counties with a population of under 40,000 will receive sufficient funds to cover any new or increased responsibilities related to coroner or medical examiner services during the specified fiscal years. The amendments also clarify the structure of county governance regarding the election or appointment of coroners and the potential for interlocal agreements for service provision.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.16.030