Engage

Legislative and Policy Advocacy

WDA’s legislative advocacy program is coordinated with the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (WACDL).  We share lobbyists Tony Sermonti and Adan Espino, and staff oversee various issues and advocacy efforts under the guidance of our joint Legislative Committee.

How to Track Bills and Participate in the Legislative Process

2024 Legislative Session

The 2024 Legislative Session was a short 60-day session that began on January 8, 2024.

This session our top priorities are to support increased funding for public defense, sentencing reform, especially HB 1268: sentencing enhancements, and responding to legislation relating to Trueblood, ITA and DUI cases. We also are strongly supportive of police accountability efforts.

We rely upon volunteers to review bills, held develop position papers, and to testify.  Please contact Christie Hedman if you have any questions or would like to become involved in our legislative work.

Position Papers

SHB 1268 Sentencing Enhancements

DPD HB 2217

Petitions

Take action: Empower the AG to bring police departments into compliance.

Amicus Work

WDA appears on behalf of indigent persons, public defenders and other criminal defense attorneys on issues relating to due process, access to justice, criminal defense and the rights of indigent persons. If you are handling a matter at the appellate level that you would like WDA to provide amicus briefing on, or to sign on to your amicus, please visit our Amicus Advocacy page.