The bill aims to enhance the community reinvestment program in Washington state by addressing racial, economic, and social disparities resulting from historical criminal laws related to drug possession and use. It establishes a framework for the development and implementation of a community reinvestment plan, which includes an initial appropriation of $1 billion for the 2023-2025 fiscal biennium, with additional funding for subsequent biennia. The bill mandates the Department of Commerce, in collaboration with the Office of Equity and community organizations, to update the community reinvestment plan every ten years, ensuring that funds are distributed effectively to benefit historically marginalized communities.

Key amendments to existing law include the creation of a community reinvestment account, which will be funded through legislative appropriations and other directed moneys. The bill specifies that expenditures from this account can be used for various purposes, including economic development, legal assistance, violence intervention services, and reentry services for formerly incarcerated individuals. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of collaboration with community organizations and mandates annual reporting on fund distribution and program outcomes. A new section also requires the Washington State Institute for Public Policy to conduct a study on the distribution and use of funds, with findings to be reported by June 30, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.79.567