Bill > HB1232

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for private detention facilities in Washington state, updating existing laws to improve the conditions, safety, and oversight of such facilities. The bill expands definitions related to detention facilities, introducing new terms like "abuse" and "neglect" to more precisely describe potential mistreatment of detained persons. It mandates that the Department of Health conduct routine, unannounced inspections of private detention facilities, with requirements for testing water and air quality, posting inspection results, and ensuring facilities meet specific standards for sanitation, nutrition, and personal care. The bill introduces significant new enforcement mechanisms, including the ability to impose conditions on facilities, assess civil fines up to $10,000 per violation (not exceeding $1,000,000 total), and mandate corrections for non-compliant facilities. Key provisions include requirements for nutritious meals prepared under dietitian guidance, accessible communication services, infection control programs, staff training, and policies protecting detained persons' rights. The bill also creates transparency measures by requiring public access to inspection results and empowering the Attorney General's office to enforce violations. Notably, the bill does not apply to certain specialized facilities like juvenile counseling centers, medical treatment facilities, and tribal-owned detention centers.