The bill aims to enhance the rights of incarcerated individuals in Washington state by accommodating their religious dietary needs within state correctional facilities. It recognizes the importance of religious beliefs and practices, asserting that such practices can lead to positive behavior both in institutions and the broader community. To support this, the bill establishes a framework for providing religious diets, ensuring that incarcerated individuals can celebrate their faith and cultural practices through appropriate meal options.

Specifically, the bill mandates that the Department of Corrections make reasonable efforts to accommodate requests for religious diets, which may include coordination with nonprofit organizations for the provision of special menu items and donated foods. It stipulates that these accommodations must be provided at no cost to the incarcerated individual and allows for the establishment of deadlines for the sponsorship of special menu items, with a maximum limit of 30 days prior to a religious event. Additionally, if a therapeutic diet is necessary, it must also align with the individual's religious dietary requirements.