The proposed bill seeks to address violent protests at postsecondary institutions in Washington State by modifying the conditions under which courts can waive restitution owed to these institutions. It introduces a new provision stating that courts may not waive restitution if the offender has the current or likely future ability to pay, thereby reinforcing financial accountability for damages incurred during protests. Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify that restitution obligations can be enforced like civil judgments and specifies that restitution owed to postsecondary institutions is treated similarly to obligations owed to insurers and state agencies.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the authority of the court regarding probation, allowing for the suspension or modification of sentences if defendants fail to comply with probation terms. It mandates restitution in cases where victims are entitled to benefits under the crime victims' compensation act and allows the Department of Labor and Industries to petition for restitution orders. The bill also introduces provisions for relieving offenders from restitution requirements if they lack the ability to pay, particularly concerning obligations to insurers, state agencies, and postsecondary institutions. Overall, the legislation aims to balance the protection of constitutional rights for peaceful protestors with the need for accountability and restitution for damages.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 3.66.120, 9.94A.753, 9.92.060, 9.95.210