WA Legislatures budget doubles public defense funds. Counties say its still not enough

Washington state lawmakers approved a budget that increases public defender funding, but local attorneys argue it remains inadequate to meet court demands. The new budget, awaiting the governor's signature, raises state contributions to approximately 6% of total funding for public defense in the 2026-2027 biennium. Historically, the state has funded less than 3%, placing the burden on local jurisdictions, which cover about 97% of costs. Public defender offices struggle to recruit and retain attorneys, especially in rural areas, leading to significant delays in case resolutions. Vulnerable populations, particularly people of color, are disproportionately affected by these delays, as evidenced by statements from local leaders like Pierce County Executive Ryan Mello.

The Office of Public Defense administers the limited state funding through a grant program, which has remained stagnant since 2017. Local leaders argue that relying solely on local revenue for a constitutional right is inappropriate and creates inequities in access to justice. The Chelan County public defender's office, for example, received only $81,000 last year, amounting to just 2. 2% of total costs.