WA SB6239

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 prerequisite for government tort claims, while existing civil arbitration thresholds ($15,000 standard, up to $100,000 with court approval) remain for non-government cases

Legislature asserts plenary power to control and regulate lawsuits against the state, including establishing procedural conditions before suits can proceed

Declared an emergency measure, taking effect immediately upon passage

Sponsored by Senators Dhingra and Pedersen during the 2026 Regular Session