WA HB1440

Establishes a new chapter in Title 7 RCW creating standardized procedures for civil asset forfeiture across Washington state, effective January 1, 2026

Raises the evidentiary standard from "preponderance of the evidence" to "clear, cogent, and convincing evidence" for law enforcement agencies to prove property is subject to forfeiture

Extends deadlines for property owners to contest seizures: 60 days for personal property and 120 days for real property (previously 45 and 90 days respectively)

Requires seizing agencies to remit 10% of net forfeiture proceeds to the state, with proceeds from certain forfeitures deposited into the behavioral health loan repayment program account through June 30, 2027

Entitles claimants who substantially prevail in forfeiture proceedings to reimbursement for reasonable attorneys' fees and extends Service Members' Civil Relief Act protections to forfeiture proceedings