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WA HB1046
Bill
Status
4/30/2025
Primary Sponsor
Mari Leavitt
Click for details
AI Summary
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Grants civil liability immunity to individuals who damage a motor vehicle while rescuing a vulnerable person (under 18 or with impairments) or domestic animal from inside the vehicle, effective July 27, 2025
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Requires rescuers to verify the vehicle is locked, have a good faith belief the person or animal faces imminent harm, and call 911 or notify law enforcement before entering
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Rescuers must use only necessary force to enter the vehicle and remain with the rescued person or animal near the vehicle until first responders arrive
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Defines "domestic animal" as dogs, cats, and other household pets, explicitly excluding livestock and farm animals
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Passed the House 60-36 and Senate 36-12, signed by Governor Bob Ferguson on April 30, 2025
Legislative Description
Protecting the vulnerable by providing immunity from civil liability for damage to a motor vehicle arising from the rescue of vulnerable persons or domestic animals.
Last Action
Effective date 7/27/2025.
4/30/2025