The bill establishes a domestic violence co-responder account within the state treasury, funded by fees collected under RCW 36.18.010. It specifies that the funds in this account can only be used for a newly created domestic violence co-responder grant program and for other domestic violence-related programs and services until June 30, 2026. The grant program, administered by the office of crime victims advocacy, will provide matching grants to cities and counties to support the establishment and operation of domestic violence co-responder programs, which involve domestic violence victim advocates responding alongside law enforcement to provide support and resources to victims.
Additionally, the bill amends RCW 36.18.010 to include new fees associated with marriage licenses, which will now contribute to the domestic violence co-responder account. Specifically, a $100 fee will be added to the existing marriage license fees, which will be deposited into the newly established account. The bill also removes language that previously indicated the legislature's intent to appropriate funds equal to the revenue generated by marriage license fees for the displaced homemaker act. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance support for domestic violence victims through targeted funding and resources.