The bill amends existing laws regarding inmate funds in Washington State, specifically RCW 72.09.015 and RCW 72.09.480. One significant change is the increase in the threshold for defining an "indigent inmate" from a balance of less than $25 to less than $100 in their institutional account at the time of a funds request. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that exempt certain funds received by inmates from deductions that typically apply to their accounts. These exemptions include funds for education or vocational programs, postage expenses, medical expenses, commissary purchases, and telephone services, ensuring that these funds are used solely for their intended purposes.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the deductions that apply when inmates receive additional funds, such as a percentage allocated to crime victims' compensation, personal savings, legal financial obligations, child support, and costs associated with incarceration. It also specifies that inmates sentenced to life without the possibility of release or death will still have deductions applied, except for the personal inmate savings account. The amendments aim to provide clearer guidelines on the management of inmate funds while ensuring that certain essential funds remain accessible for inmates' needs.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 72.09.015, 72.09.100