The bill seeks to improve the juvenile justice system by expanding community placement options and refining procedural requirements for juveniles adjudicated for offenses. A significant amendment requires that when a juvenile is sentenced to confinement exceeding 30 days, the court must independently determine, with clear and convincing evidence, that such confinement is necessary for community protection. The bill also introduces specific factors for the court to consider, such as the severity of the offense and the juvenile's treatment needs. Additionally, it clarifies that certain dispositions within the standard range for serious offenses are not appealable, while others exceeding 30 days are. The bill emphasizes the importance of treatment alternatives for juveniles who have not committed serious offenses and mandates that treatment providers submit progress reports to the court.

Moreover, the bill amends existing laws to clarify definitions and procedures related to juvenile offenders, including the definition of "victim" and the requirements for dispositional orders. It introduces new provisions regarding the supervision and confinement of juveniles, particularly those serving terms over 30 days, and establishes that the juvenile court maintains concurrent jurisdiction with the department for certain offenses. The bill also outlines notification requirements for law enforcement and schools regarding juveniles convicted of serious offenses, ensuring that relevant parties are informed of the juvenile's status. Additionally, it sets eligibility criteria for community transition services and includes a provision that nullifies the act if specific funding is not provided by a certain date, linking the implementation of these changes to financial support.

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
Substitute Bill: 13.40.160, 13.40.165, 13.40.185, 13.40.0357, 72.05.420, 13.40.210, 13.40.215, 13.40.230, 72.01.412, 13.40.205
Second Substitute: 13.40.160, 13.40.165, 13.40.185, 13.40.0357, 72.05.420, 13.40.210, 13.40.215, 13.40.230, 72.01.412, 13.40.205