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Bill

HB 1301

Concerning reducing fees and expenses for services for people confined in state facilities.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lauren Davis and 9 co-sponsors

HB 1301 reduces or eliminates fees charged to people in Washington state facilities, lowering costs for incarcerated and institutionalized individuals for services and commissary.

Public hearing in the House Committee on Community Safety at 4:00 PM.
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Bill Summary · HB 1301

Legislative bill overview

HB 1301 aims to reduce or eliminate fees and expenses charged to incarcerated and institutionalized individuals in Washington state facilities. The bill would lower financial burdens on people confined in state prisons, mental health facilities, and similar institutions. This addresses costs for services like phone calls, commissary items, healthcare copays, and other facility-related charges.

Why is this important

Incarcerated individuals often earn minimal wages (sometimes pennies per hour) while facing substantial fees that drain limited personal funds and create debt. These costs disproportionately impact low-income individuals and their families who may struggle to support them during confinement. Reducing these fees could improve conditions, reduce recidivism barriers, and address equity concerns in how the criminal justice system finances itself through confined populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Facility funding impact: Opponents may argue that fees help fund prison operations and services; reducing them could require increased general fund appropriations
  • Cost allocation: Debate over which fees should be eliminated entirely versus reduced, and whether certain services (like phone calls or commissary) should remain partially fee-based
  • Implementation scope: Unclear whether bill applies to all state facilities equally or distinguishes between corrections, mental health, and developmental disability institutions

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

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