The bill aims to improve developmentally appropriate alternatives for youth in Washington State by enhancing diversion from the formal court process. It emphasizes the benefits of such diversion, including lower recidivism rates and better long-term outcomes for youth. Key amendments introduce new definitions and provisions related to community-based rehabilitation and restorative justice, while clarifying that a juvenile's parent or guardian cannot decline to enter into a diversion agreement on their behalf. The bill also modifies existing definitions regarding community restitution and counseling hours, allowing youth to access up to 30 hours of counseling and 20 hours of educational sessions if needed, and extends the duration of diversion agreements until the juvenile's 21st birthday.

Additionally, the legislation mandates detailed reporting on juvenile detention and diversion events, requiring courts to document specific information about secure detention and diversion agreements. It also calls for the development of common definitions and data collection methods for diversion programs, with a report due by July 1, 2026. The administrative office of the courts is tasked with delivering annual reports to the legislature on youth detention demographics and trends in diversion agreements. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance support and services for juvenile offenders while promoting community involvement and accountability, and it ensures that provisions apply to all completed and current diversion agreements.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 13.40.020, 13.40.080, 13.06.010, 13.06.030, 13.06.040, 2.56.032
Substitute Bill: 13.40.020, 13.40.080, 13.06.010, 13.06.030, 13.06.040, 2.56.032