The Brief
- Washington paid a record $500 million in lawsuit settlements and judgments last year, straining state and local government budgets.
- Most of the state’s legal liability costs are tied to claims against the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, many involving allegations of abuse and negligence.
- Lawmakers say there is no immediate solution, but a state committee is studying possible reforms and will report its recommendations by November.
Your tax dollars are paying out an astronomical increase in lawsuits.
It’s a major strain on state and local budgets—called “tort liability.” That’s when the government gets sued—and must pay a settlement or jury award.
Just last year, the state paid out a record-breaking $500 million, which is five times the amount in 2021. As of now, lawmakers are struggling to find a solution.…