WA HB2700

All tort claims against Washington state or its political subdivisions must go through civil arbitration before being scheduled for trial, regardless of the dollar amount sought

Amends RCW 7.06.020 to add mandatory arbitration as a procedural requirement for government tort claims, while existing civil arbitration thresholds ($15,000 or up to $100,000 with court approval) remain for non-government cases

Declared an emergency measure, taking effect immediately upon passage

Legislative intent cites protecting the public treasury from increasing liability while maintaining a "structured, fair process" for injured parties seeking compensation for government negligence