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Washington Evictions Soar: Justice for Renters at Risk?
31 Jan
Summary
- Eviction filings in Washington state have surged 50% above pandemic levels.
- A proposed $3 million cut could deny 2,000 renters legal representation.
- The Eviction Prevention Program has housed 90% of tenants served since 2021.
Eviction filings have surged by 50% above pandemic levels in Washington state, escalating a crisis that leaves many tenants facing homelessness. The state Legislature is currently deliberating a $3 million cut to the Eviction Prevention Program. This reduction would eliminate legal representation for approximately 2,000 renters.
Leaders from legal aid organizations emphasize the critical importance of this program. They highlight that tenants without legal counsel in court overwhelmingly lose their cases, significantly increasing their risk of homelessness. Despite the proposed cut, the argument is that this action would ultimately cost the state more due to increased expenses for emergency services and shelters.
Washington established a right to an attorney for low-income tenants facing eviction in 2021, becoming a national leader. The Eviction Prevention Program has since assisted over 33,500 tenants, achieving permanent housing solutions in 90% of cases. However, funding is set to fall short by $3 million on July 1, 2026, jeopardizing this essential service as eviction filings continue to climb.
