This bill aims to retroactively amend the sentencing laws in Washington State by excluding certain juvenile convictions from an offender's score, which can lengthen prison sentences. The legislation recognizes the disproportionate impact of assigning "juvenile points" on black, indigenous, and people of color, and seeks to address the historical trauma associated with the mass incarceration of indigenous youth. It establishes a process for individuals sentenced for offenses committed before July 23, 2023, to petition for resentencing if their offender score was increased due to juvenile adjudications that are no longer considered scorable under current law. The bill outlines specific eligibility criteria for petitioners, including time served and conditions under which a court may grant or deny a petition.
Additionally, the bill emphasizes the rights of victims and survivors during the resentencing process, ensuring they are informed and allowed to present statements at hearings. It also mandates the establishment of victim advocacy services and a flexible fund to support victims impacted by the act. The legislation includes a provision that it will become null and void if specific funding is not provided by June 30, 2025. Overall, the bill seeks to create a more equitable legal framework for sentencing while considering the rights and needs of victims.