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Bill

Bill

HB 1499

Concerning legal financial obligations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Berry and 18 co-sponsors

Washington bill modifies legal financial obligations imposed on convicted individuals, potentially reducing court fines and fees to ease reentry barriers and financial hardship.

Referred to Appropriations.
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Bill Summary · HB 1499

Legislative bill overview

HB 1499 addresses legal financial obligations (LFOs)—court-ordered fines, fees, and restitution imposed on individuals convicted of crimes. The bill has advanced through the House Committee on Civil Rights & Judiciary with a substitute version and now faces review in the Appropriations Committee. The specific provisions of the substitute bill are not detailed in the action summary provided.

Why is this important

Legal financial obligations create significant barriers to reentry and economic stability for people with criminal records, often perpetuating cycles of poverty and incarceration when individuals cannot pay. Washington has been at the forefront of LFO reform, and this bill continues that conversation as policymakers weigh debt relief, collection practices, and their social impact.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of relief: Whether the bill eliminates certain LFOs entirely, reduces them, or creates hardship waivers—each approach has different fiscal and justice implications
  • Victim restitution: Balancing debt forgiveness with the rights and expectations of crime victims to receive compensation
  • State revenue impact: Courts and local governments rely on LFO collections for funding, so reductions require identifying alternative revenue sources (now under Appropriations review)

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

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