The bill amends RCW 71.24.580 to enhance the provisions surrounding the criminal justice treatment account, which is designated for funding substance use disorder treatment and support services for offenders. Key changes include the removal of specific timeframes for funding availability during the 2021-2023 and 2023-2025 fiscal biennia, allowing for a more flexible approach to funding treatment services for nonviolent offenders in drug court programs for 180 days post-graduation. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the funds can be used for treatment and recovery support services without being subject to medical necessity determinations, ensuring that offenders have access to necessary services.

The bill also outlines the distribution of funds from the criminal justice treatment account, specifying that 70% will be allocated to counties based on a distribution formula, while 30% will be available as grants for treating offenders charged by county prosecutors. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including law enforcement and treatment providers, to develop fair methodologies for fund distribution. Furthermore, the bill mandates that counties submit plans for fund usage that incorporate evidence-based practices and encourages regional agreements for efficient treatment delivery. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the effectiveness and accessibility of substance use disorder treatment for offenders in Washington State.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 71.24.580
Bill as Passed Legislature: 71.24.580
Session Law: 71.24.580