The bill seeks to improve outcomes for juveniles adjudicated for offenses by expanding community placement options and refining procedural requirements. A significant amendment requires that when a juvenile is sentenced to confinement exceeding 30 days, the court must independently determine that such confinement is necessary for community protection, supported by a preponderance of evidence. The court must also consider factors like the severity of the offense and the juvenile's treatment needs before imposing a sentence. If confinement is deemed unnecessary, the court may opt for local sanctions or electronic monitoring instead. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the provision of culturally relevant care and treatment options, mandating that treatment alternatives be considered and evaluations ordered to assess the juvenile's needs.

Further amendments address the management and release of juvenile offenders, including the establishment of a structured parole program with specific conditions and notification requirements for law enforcement regarding the release of juveniles who have committed violent or sex offenses. The bill also modifies the appeals process for juvenile dispositions, allowing for reviews based solely on the record from the disposition court and setting timeframes for decisions. It introduces eligibility criteria for community transition services, ensuring that individuals in custody can serve part of their confinement in a community setting under supervision, provided they meet specific conditions. Overall, the legislation aims to balance accountability with rehabilitation, reduce recidivism, and enhance community safety.

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
Engrossed 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