This bill mandates that each local government in Washington State must provide underinsured motorist coverage for vehicles owned by the government and operated or occupied by its officers, employees, or agents during their employment. The coverage is designed to protect these individuals in the event of an accident involving an underinsured motor vehicle, hit-and-run vehicle, or phantom vehicle, covering bodily injury, death, or property damage. The required coverage must have minimum limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident and does not extend to third-party occupants of government-owned vehicles. Local governments can fulfill this requirement through contracts with private insurers, self-insurance, or other legally authorized methods.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 48.62.031 to include provisions for underinsured coverage as part of the self-insurance options available to local government entities. It allows these entities to individually self-insure or join together to form self-insurance programs, which can include underinsured coverage as specified in the new section. The bill also outlines the responsibilities and powers of joint self-insurance programs, including risk management and legal services. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 48.22.030