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 to require the Washington State Institute for Public Policy and the University of Washington Evidence-Based Practice Institute to prepare an inventory of evidence-based, research-based, and promising practices for prevention and intervention services, which will be periodically updated. Additionally, the Department of Social and Health Services and the Department of Children, Youth, and Families are tasked with prioritizing the assessment of promising practices to increase the number that meet established standards.

Furthermore, 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 approved for funding. These evaluations will focus on recidivism rates and include a benefit-cost analysis, with priority given to programs based on the time since their last evaluation and the number of juveniles participating. This legislative change aims to ensure that juvenile justice programs are effective and responsive to the needs of the youth they serve.

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