The bill aims to address the increasing court capacity issues related to unlawful detainer actions in Washington by allowing superior courts to appoint housing court commissioners. This initiative is in response to a significant rise in eviction filings, which has created delays in court proceedings and added burdens for both landlords and tenants. The legislation emphasizes the importance of the right to counsel program for low-income renters and encourages superior courts to coordinate their dockets with these legal services. The bill also mandates that housing court commissioners receive training on relevant landlord-tenant laws and procedures.

New sections are added to chapters 59.18 and 59.20 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), detailing the roles and responsibilities of the housing court commissioners. These commissioners will be authorized to handle various duties related to unlawful detainer actions, including receiving applications, holding hearings, and making reports that become part of the court record. The appointments of these commissioners require the consent of the county legislative authority and are subject to oversight by the superior court. The bill declares an emergency, indicating its immediate necessity for public safety and the functioning of state institutions.