The House Finance Committee convened on February 11, 2025, to discuss several key pieces of legislation, notably House Bill 1127, which aims to protect citizens from predatory business practices related to unclaimed property.

During the meeting, Skagit County Treasurer Jackie Brunson highlighted the challenges faced by county treasurers, who have seen an increase in businesses charging excessive fees—sometimes over 30%—to locate unclaimed funds that individuals can claim for free. Brunson emphasized the need to reinstate a previous provision that limited such fees to 5%, arguing that the removal of this cap has led to exploitation, particularly of vulnerable populations like senior citizens.

Jennifer Wallace, executive director of the Washington Association of County Officials, echoed Brunson's concerns, supporting the bill's intent to curb predatory practices. She noted that similar issues arise in various sectors, including military and court records, and called for clearer language in the bill to ensure compliance with consumer protection laws.

The committee also reopened discussions on House Bill 1356, with testimony from representatives of the Washington Education Association, indicating ongoing legislative efforts to address educational funding and related issues.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further refine the proposed legislation, ensuring it effectively safeguards citizens against exploitation while facilitating access to unclaimed property. The committee's actions reflect a growing awareness of the need for consumer protection in financial matters.