The bill seeks to redefine the term "persistent offender" by excluding individuals under the age of 18 from being classified as such based on their juvenile offenses. It introduces a new section in chapter 9.94A RCW that mandates resentencing hearings for offenders previously labeled as persistent if their conviction included an offense committed while they were minors. The prosecuting attorney is tasked with reviewing sentencing documents and may file a motion for relief if applicable. If the court determines that a juvenile offense contributed to the persistent offender classification, it is required to grant the motion and resentence the individual as if that conviction were not considered a most serious offense.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 9.94A.030 to clarify that any offense committed by an individual under 18 will not be treated as a most serious offense for resentencing purposes, regardless of when the offense occurred. This change aims to ensure that juvenile offenses do not disproportionately affect the classification of offenders as persistent, promoting a fairer sentencing process. The bill also specifies that a persistent offender must be 18 years or older at the time of their offense and includes new definitions for terms related to criminal offenses, enhancing the legal framework for addressing recidivism and public safety.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9.94A.030