The bill seeks to improve outcomes for juveniles adjudicated for offenses by expanding community placement options and refining procedural requirements. It establishes a standard range disposition for juvenile offenders, requiring courts to impose determinate dispositions within these ranges, with exceptions for serious offenses like first-degree murder and rape. Before sentencing a juvenile to confinement exceeding 30 days, the court must find clear and convincing evidence that community-based placement would not adequately protect the community. The bill also modifies eligibility criteria for the special sex offender disposition alternative, allowing treatment options for juveniles with specific offenses and no prior sex offense history, while ensuring that any juvenile entitled to credit for time spent in detention has this reflected in their dispositional order.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding juvenile parole and sentencing, introducing a structured sentencing grid that categorizes offenses and outlines standard ranges for confinement. It emphasizes the importance of rehabilitation by allowing for treatment options instead of confinement for certain offenses and mandates the submission of progress reports from treatment providers. The bill also establishes new notification requirements for the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) regarding juveniles who have committed serious violent or sex offenses, ensuring community safety and rehabilitation. Furthermore, it defines "community transition services" as a supportive community-based custody option, allowing individuals to serve part of their confinement in the community under supervision, with a focus on trauma-informed and culturally relevant approaches.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 13.40.160, 13.40.230, 13.40.185, 13.40.0357, 72.05.420, 13.40.210, 13.40.215, 13.40.308, 72.01.412