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WA HB1892

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/7/2025

Primary Sponsor

Jenny Graham

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2025-2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Creates a new cause of action allowing persons injured by individuals previously arrested for violent offenses to sue state legislators who voted for laws making pretrial release easier or prosecution less likely

  • Removes traditional legislative immunity as a defense, prohibiting legislators from claiming absolute immunity for legislative acts in these lawsuits

  • Requires legislators to demonstrate "adequate consideration" through written published assessments analyzing recidivism risks, crime victim rights, and alternatives to detention, plus consideration of testimony from law enforcement and victims

  • Imposes personal liability on legislators for all defense costs and judgments if a court finds by clear and convincing evidence they intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly disregarded public harm risks when voting

  • Takes effect January 1, 2026, with a three-year statute of limitations from when plaintiff discovers the cause of action; amends RCW 4.92.070, 4.92.075, and 4.96.041

Legislative Description

Concerning the establishment of liability standards for state legislators.

Last Action

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.

1/12/2026

Committee Referrals

Civil Rights & Judiciary2/7/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available