The bill seeks to implement recommendations from the sex offender policy board by amending several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), particularly RCW 9A.44.132, which pertains to the penalties for failure to register as a sex offender. It clarifies that failure to register is classified as a class C felony for individuals with a specific duty to register, while it is a gross misdemeanor for those with a lesser duty. The bill also introduces a new section addressing failure to register as a kidnapping offender, establishing penalties based on the severity of the offense. Significant deletions include the removal of specific conditions that previously defined felony classification based on prior convictions, and the bill reenacts and amends definitions related to community corrections and offender supervision to align with current practices.

Additionally, the bill revises definitions and classifications of various offenses, particularly focusing on sexual and violent crimes, and introduces new provisions for community custody for offenders convicted of serious violent or sex offenses. It emphasizes the importance of community custody in the sentencing process, mandating structured supervision to enhance public safety and reduce recidivism. The bill also outlines requirements for individual reentry plans for incarcerated individuals, ensuring they receive support in areas such as education and employment upon release. New sections require the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs to review policies related to sex offender registration and community notification, with findings due by December 1, 2025, and certain sections of the act will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 9A.44.132, 9A.44.140, 9.94A.030, 9A.44.144, 9.94A.701, 9A.20.021
Substitute Bill: 9A.44.132, 9A.04.080, 9.94A.030, 9.94A.701, 9A.20.021, 9.94A.501, 9.94A.717