WA HB2706

Creates a claims commission within the Office of Administrative Hearings to adjudicate tort claims against the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) for tortious conduct occurring prior to 2020, primarily historical childhood abuse claims.

Addresses a $1.3-$1.4 billion shortfall in the state's liability account caused by an 800% increase in DCYF claims (from 157 in fiscal year 2019 to 1,455 in fiscal year 2025) following the 2019 H.B.H. v. State Supreme Court ruling.

The seven-member commission includes an administrative law judge (chair), a trauma expert, a plaintiffs' attorney, and representatives from Enterprise Services, the defendant agency, the Attorney General, and the Office of Financial Management, all appointed by the governor.

Grants the state sovereign immunity from tort claims within the commission's jurisdiction, requiring claimants to bring such claims to the commission rather than court, though aggrieved parties may request a trial de novo in superior court.

Requires the Office of the State Actuary to conduct studies and make recommendations to maintain solvency of the liability account, and authorizes payment of commission awards from the liability account.