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HB 2417

Changing the Washington code of military justice so that it includes certain protections for victims of an offense while serving within the organized militia of Washington.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Carolyn Eslick and 7 co-sponsors

Washington bill adds victim protections to state military justice code for organized militia members, ensuring crime victims' rights in state military proceedings.

Effective date 6/11/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 2417

Legislative bill overview

HB 2417 amends Washington's military justice code to establish victim protections for individuals who experience offenses while serving in the state's organized militia (National Guard). The bill adds safeguards that ensure victims have rights and support similar to those available in civilian criminal proceedings.

Why is this important

Military personnel, including National Guard members, operate under a separate justice system with different procedural rules than civilian courts. Without explicit victim protections in state military law, service members who are victims of crimes may lack access to notifications, support services, and participation rights in proceedings. This bill addresses a gap in protections for a vulnerable population.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of protections unclear: The bill's language doesn't specify which victim protections are included (notification rights, restitution, impact statements, etc.), leaving implementation questions.
  • Interaction with federal UCMJ: Military members are also subject to federal Uniform Code of Military Justice, creating potential overlap or conflict between state and federal victim rights procedures.
  • Resource implications: Implementing new victim services and notification systems for military cases may require additional funding for state military justice personnel and victim advocacy programs.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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