The bill amends RCW 72.09.015 to redefine the term "indigent inmate," increasing the threshold for an inmate to be considered indigent from a balance of $25 to $100 in their institutional account. Additionally, it establishes a new section that mandates the Washington Department of Corrections to adjust this indigent amount every four years, starting July 1, 2029, based on the consumer price index. If the adjustment would result in a decrease from a prior amount, the department is instructed not to lower the threshold.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Department of Corrections to publish the indigent rate on their public website and at each correctional facility, ensuring that this information is accessible to inmates within five business days of July 1st each year, starting from July 1, 2027. This aims to enhance transparency regarding inmate financial status and the criteria for indigency.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 72.09.015, 72.09.100
Substitute bill: 72.09.015
Bill as passed Legislature: 72.09.015