This bill establishes a framework for legislative oversight of state agency tortious conduct, particularly in cases where the state incurs significant financial liability. It mandates that legislative hearings be conducted whenever a tort payout exceeds $1,000,000, allowing for a thorough review of the agency's actions and the circumstances surrounding the payment. The intent is to identify potential changes to state practices that could prevent similar incidents in the future, thereby protecting vulnerable citizens.

Specifically, the bill adds a new section to chapter 4.92 RCW, requiring the appropriate policy and fiscal committees of both the Senate and House of Representatives to hold a joint hearing within 12 months of any such payment. During these hearings, reports from the attorney general, the office of risk management, and the relevant agency will be presented, detailing the events leading to the payment and discussing possible modifications to state policies to mitigate future liabilities. The bill also ensures that the information shared during these hearings respects the confidentiality of attorney-client communications and attorney work product.