The bill aims to enhance the effectiveness of juvenile justice programs in Washington by mandating ongoing evaluations and clarifying juvenile diversion practices. It amends RCW 43.20C.020, removing previous requirements for the Department of Social and Health Services to collaborate with various entities for the publication of definitions related to evidence-based practices. Instead, it establishes that the Washington State Institute for Public Policy and the University of Washington Evidence-Based Practice Institute must create and periodically update an inventory of evidence-based, research-based, and promising practices for prevention and intervention services. The bill also emphasizes the need for these entities to assess the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of identified services.

Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for the Washington State Institute for Public Policy to conduct biennial outcome evaluations of juvenile justice programs that are evidence-based and funded by the block grant oversight committee. These evaluations will prioritize programs based on the time since their last evaluation and the number of juveniles involved. The focus of these evaluations will be on recidivism rates and will include a benefit-cost analysis, thereby ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to programs that demonstrate positive outcomes.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.20C.020, 13.40.080
Substitute Bill: 43.20C.020