This bill aims to retroactively amend the sentencing laws in Washington State by excluding certain juvenile convictions from an offender's score, thereby preventing these convictions from lengthening prison sentences. The legislation recognizes the disproportionate impact of juvenile felony adjudications on Black, Indigenous, and people of color, and acknowledges the historical trauma associated with the mass incarceration of Indigenous children. It establishes a new section in chapter 9.94A RCW that allows 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 scorable under current law.
The bill outlines specific criteria for eligibility for resentencing, including time served and conditions under which a petition may be granted or denied. It emphasizes the rights of victims and survivors during the resentencing process, ensuring they are informed and allowed to present statements. Additionally, the legislation provides for the appointment of counsel for individuals unable to afford legal representation during the petition process. The bill also includes provisions for victim advocacy services and establishes a fund to support victims impacted by the resentencing process. Overall, the legislation seeks to address past injustices while balancing the rights of victims and the needs of those seeking resentencing.