The bill amends Washington State laws concerning unlawful possession of firearms by juveniles, specifically modifying RCW 9.41.040 and RCW 13.40.0357. It introduces new provisions that classify a juvenile as guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm in the first degree if they own, access, or possess a firearm after being adjudicated, convicted, or found not guilty by reason of insanity for certain serious offenses, including comparable out-of-state offenses. The bill establishes that unlawful possession in the first degree is a class B felony, while unlawful possession in the second degree is a class C felony. It also outlines penalties for juveniles, such as potential revocation of driving privileges for those under 18 who possess a firearm in a vehicle or commit an offense while armed, and specifies that each unlawfully possessed firearm constitutes a separate offense.

Additionally, the bill details a structured approach to sentencing juvenile offenders, where prior adjudications influence the calculation of points for determining the standard range disposition for current offenses. It introduces options for disposition, including a suspended disposition alternative that allows for a standard range sentence with compliance conditions, as well as treatment options for chemical dependency or mental health issues. The bill establishes criteria for ineligibility for the suspended disposition option, focusing on serious offenses, and mandates that treatment programs must be evidence-based or research-based best practices. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance public safety by imposing stricter regulations on juvenile firearm possession while providing a rehabilitative approach to juvenile justice.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 9.41.040, 9.41.041