The bill proposes a significant reorganization of juvenile justice functions in Washington State by transferring responsibilities from the Department of Children, Youth, and Families to the Department of Corrections. It includes a new section that outlines the transfer of all powers, duties, and functions related to juvenile justice services, including personnel, records, and property. All references to the former department in the Revised Code of Washington will now refer to the Department of Corrections, and appropriations made to the former department for these functions will be transferred by July 1, 2026. The bill also amends various sections to reflect this transition, including the definition of "Department," which will now refer to the Department of Corrections.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions aimed at enhancing juvenile rehabilitation and support, such as community transition services and the establishment of a risk assessment tool for evaluating juvenile offenders. It clarifies the conditions for juvenile release from detention and outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Corrections in managing juvenile correctional institutions. The bill emphasizes the importance of family involvement in treatment processes and includes measures to ensure the safety and well-being of state employees in correctional settings. Overall, the bill aims to streamline juvenile justice services while improving outcomes for at-risk youth and ensuring accountability within the corrections system.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 13.40.020, 13.40.050, 13.40.087, 74.14B.060, 13.40.205, 13.40.210, 13.40.280, 13.40.285, 13.40.730, 74.14A.030, 74.14A.040, 72.01.045, 72.01.050, 13.16.100, 28A.225.010, 72.05.010, 72.05.020, 72.05.130, 72.05.154, 72.05.440, 72.19.010, 72.19.020, 72.19.030, 72.19.040, 72.19.050, 72.19.060, 72.72.030, 72.72.040, 13.06.020, 13.06.030, 13.06.040, 13.06.050, 28A.190.050, 28A.190.060, 71.34.795, 72.01.410, 43.216.005, 43.216.035, 43.216.015