The bill amends RCW 7.105.352 to establish a program for the issuance of protection order hope cards, which are intended to provide essential information about protection orders in a scannable electronic format. The administrative office of the courts is tasked with developing and implementing this program in collaboration with various judicial and law enforcement associations, as well as survivor advocacy organizations. The hope cards will include critical details such as the names and dates of birth of the restrained and protected persons, information about the protection order, and any relevant firearm prohibitions to enhance safety for the petitioners and law enforcement.

Additionally, the bill specifies that individuals with a valid full protection order can request a hope card without incurring any fees, and it ensures that the card has the same legal effect as the underlying protection order. The bill also introduces a new section to chapter 2.56 RCW, mandating that the administrative office of the courts ensures consistent reporting and database entry of the required information across all courts. This legislative change aims to improve the accessibility and effectiveness of protection orders for individuals at risk of harm.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 7.105.352
Substitute Bill: 7.105.352
Bill as Passed Legislature: 7.105.352
Session Law: 7.105.352