The bill amends several sections of the Washington juvenile justice code, including RCW 13.40.070, 13.40.080, 13.40.0357, and 13.40.193, while repealing RCW 13.40.308. Key changes involve new criteria for prosecutors regarding the filing of charges or diversion cases for juveniles. Specifically, if a juvenile has three or more diversion agreements in their history, prosecutors are mandated to file an information in juvenile court. The bill also clarifies the conditions for establishing diversion agreements, including limits on community restitution and counseling hours, and emphasizes the need for victim notification and community program involvement in the diversion process. Stricter guidelines for diversion agreements are introduced, requiring written agreements and due process for violations, along with penalties for community agencies that fail to report juvenile progress accurately.

Additionally, the bill proposes significant changes to juvenile sentencing standards, including new classifications and modifications to existing ones, particularly for assault and drive-by shooting offenses committed by individuals aged 15 and under. A new sentencing grid is established to provide structured ranges for juvenile offenders based on offense categories and prior adjudications. The bill also addresses firearm possession by juveniles, requiring participation in qualifying programs for offenders violating firearm laws, and introduces enhanced penalties for serious offenses committed with firearms, especially in connection with gang activity. By repealing certain minimum sentence requirements for motor vehicle-related offenses, the bill aims to streamline the juvenile justice framework and promote rehabilitation through evidence-based programs, ultimately creating a more effective system that balances accountability with reform opportunities.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 13.40.070, 13.40.080, 13.40.0357, 13.40.193