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
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.