This bill amends existing laws regarding the county and municipal criminal justice assistance accounts in Washington State, specifically RCW 82.14.310, 82.14.320, and 82.14.330. It significantly increases the funding allocated to both accounts, raising the annual transfer from the general fund to the county criminal justice assistance account from $23.2 million to $50 million, and similarly for the municipal account. Additionally, starting in fiscal year 2026, the amount transferred to both accounts will increase by 50 percent, with subsequent annual increases based on the fiscal growth factor. The bill also clarifies that funds from these accounts must be used exclusively for criminal justice purposes and cannot replace existing funding.

The bill further modifies eligibility criteria for cities to receive distributions from the municipal criminal justice assistance account, removing previous requirements related to local tax levies and per capita yield. It maintains that cities must have a crime rate exceeding 125 percent of the statewide average to qualify. The legislation emphasizes that funds must be used for activities that support the criminal justice system, including domestic violence services and programs for at-risk youth. It also stipulates that no more than five percent of the funds can be appropriated for enhancements to the state patrol crime laboratory system, ensuring that these funds do not supplant existing state general fund allocations.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 82.14.310, 82.14.320, 82.14.330