RADIO | Rep. Peter Abbarno joins Lars Larson on KXL Radio to provide a mid-session update

February 16, 2026

House Republican Caucus Chair Peter Abbarno joined Lars Larson on KXL to sound the alarm about House Bill 2539, a bill recently passed by House Democrats that raises serious questions about priorities in Olympia. The bill effectively allows convicted criminals to shield a larger portion of their institutional account funds from being deducted for essential obligations like child support, victim restitution, and legal financial obligations.

In a candid discussion, Abbarno explained why he voted “no” and why he views this policy as a “sad commentary” on the state’s justice system. He argued that because taxpayers already provide for an inmate’s daily necessities—including food, shelter, and medical care—any additional money they accumulate should go toward the victims they harmed or the children they are responsible for, rather than staying in their pockets for commissary perks like snacks or electronics.

They also discussed the broader message this sends to law-abiding citizens, with Abbarno noting that the legislation redefines “indigence” in a way that prioritizes the comfort of inmates over the financial restitution owed to crime victims. If you are concerned about accountability in Washington state, you will want to listen to their full breakdown of how this bill impacts the justice system.