The bill amends Washington's Revised Code to update exemptions from garnishment for personal property, introducing new exemption limits for private student loans and consumer debts. Specifically, individuals can exempt up to $2,500 from bank accounts for private student loan debt and $2,000 for consumer debt. These amounts will be adjusted every three years based on the consumer price index to ensure they remain relevant. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of exempt property to include alimony and spousal support, allowing these to be claimed as exempt from garnishment. It also clarifies the process for claiming exemptions, requiring a notice of garnishment to inform debtors of their rights and available exemptions.

Moreover, the bill revises the process for claiming exemptions on garnished earnings and property, mandating that judgment creditors specify dollar amounts related to exemption claims before serving a notice or writ. It updates the language and structure of writs of garnishment to include clear statements regarding the basis for garnishment, whether for child support, private student loans, or consumer debt. The bill also establishes new thresholds for the release of funds in bank accounts based on their classification as individual or community property. Certain previous acts are repealed, and the bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, emphasizing the need for immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 6.15.010
Substitute Bill: 6.15.010
Second Substitute: 6.15.010
Engrossed Second Substitute: 6.15.010, 6.15.050, 6.27.140, 6.27.100
Bill as Passed Legislature: 6.15.010, 6.15.050, 6.27.140, 6.27.100
Session Law: 6.15.010, 6.15.050, 6.27.140, 6.27.100