The proposed legislation aims to address the growing issue of repeat theft and related property offenses in Washington State by implementing stricter penalties and promoting court-supervised alternatives to incarceration. The bill defines "community-safety crimes" as nonviolent misdemeanors or gross misdemeanors that, when repeated, pose risks to public safety and economic stability. It establishes that individuals convicted of such crimes who are classified as repeat offenders will face mandatory imprisonment of 30 to 364 days and fines up to $5,000. However, the court is encouraged to prioritize diversion programs that provide access to behavioral health care and other support services over incarceration, provided that public safety is maintained.

Additionally, the bill outlines the implementation of these measures, which will take effect on July 1, 2026, and mandates the administrative office of the courts to develop guidance on diversion program eligibility and outcomes. It also allows for the adoption of administrative rules to ensure consistent application of the law. The act is officially titled the "retail theft accountability act" and includes a severability clause to maintain the validity of the remaining provisions if any part is found invalid.