BELLINGHAM, WA – (KGMI.com) The Washington State Patrol opened their second forensic toxicology lab in Federal Way last week, and it happened in the nick of time.

According to Director of Communications Chris Loftis, WSP has a turn-around on lab results that’s nearly a year out.

Their goal is between 60 and 90 days.

Loftis says that the reason for the significant backlog has to do with a population increase within the state.

According to the state’s Office of Financial Management, Washington as seen a population increase by about one million within the last 10 years.

More people means more demand says Loftis.

In addition to the population increase, other factors like marijuana legalization and a rise in meth and opioid use within the state have put a strain on WSP’s resources.

Loftis says WSP is on track to handle about 17,000 cases this year alone, with two-thirds being DUI cases.

Scientists working in the lab have to be accredited before their testimonies will show up in court.

Accreditation for experts takes between 12 and 18 months, so the effects of the new lab on legal action will be slow to take effect.