The bill amends RCW 9.94A.535 to allow courts to impose exceptional sentences outside the standard range for offenses based on substantial and compelling reasons. It specifies that mitigating circumstances can justify a lower sentence, including factors such as the victim's role in the incident, the defendant's efforts to compensate the victim, and the defendant's impaired capacity to understand their actions. Notably, the bill introduces a new mitigating circumstance that considers the defendant's caregiver status, allowing for a potential reduction in sentencing if the defendant is a primary parent, legal guardian, or custodian of a minor child or caregiver for other family members, provided they do not have certain substantiated findings of abuse or neglect.

Additionally, the bill outlines various aggravating circumstances that can lead to an increased sentence, including the defendant's prior criminal history and the nature of the current offense. The court is given the authority to impose aggravated exceptional sentences without a jury finding under specific conditions, such as mutual agreement between the defendant and the state. The bill emphasizes the importance of written findings of fact and conclusions of law when a sentence outside the standard range is imposed, ensuring transparency and accountability in the sentencing process.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9.94A.535
Substitute Bill: 9.94A.535