The bill seeks to enhance economic security in Washington State by updating the home security fund and the essential needs and housing support program. It clarifies that essential needs or housing support is not an entitlement and specifies eligibility criteria for low or extremely low-income elderly or disabled adults transitioning off benefits. Key amendments include a requirement for verification of referrals for essential needs and housing support, the introduction of direct cash assistance under certain conditions, and the flexible use of funds to address immediate needs, such as through debit cash cards and vouchers. Additionally, the bill outlines the distribution of funds from a new surcharge on recorded documents, ensuring that a significant portion is allocated to local homeless housing plans and initiatives supporting extremely low-income households.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws related to public assistance programs, focusing on eligibility criteria and expanding access to individuals who are not citizens or lawful residents, particularly victims of human trafficking. It establishes a pregnant women assistance program for those in need who do not qualify for federal or state assistance, with specific eligibility criteria. The bill also mandates the sharing of client data with the Department of Commerce and designated support entities to improve service delivery. However, the Governor vetoed a section aimed at expanding eligibility for the Housing and Essential Needs Referral program due to concerns about state agency capacity and funding.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.185C.220, 43.185C.230, 36.22.250, 74.04.005, 74.04.805, 74.62.030
Substitute Bill: 43.185C.220, 43.185C.230, 36.22.250, 74.04.005, 74.04.805, 74.62.030
Engrossed Substitute: 43.185C.220, 43.185C.230, 36.22.250, 74.04.005, 74.04.805, 74.62.030
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.185C.220, 43.185C.230, 36.22.250, 74.04.005, 74.04.805, 74.62.030
Session Law: 43.185C.220, 43.185C.230, 36.22.250, 74.04.005, 74.04.805, 74.62.030