Bill > HB1246

This bill concerns juvenile justice and makes several modifications to existing laws regarding juvenile offenders. The bill changes how prosecutors screen and handle juvenile criminal complaints, with key provisions including broadening the circumstances under which a prosecutor must file formal charges, such as when a juvenile has three or more diversion agreements in their criminal history. It also expands diversion options and modifies sentencing guidelines for various offenses, notably increasing the severity classifications for several crimes including assault, sexual offenses, and firearm-related offenses. The bill introduces new requirements for diversion agreements, such as mandating that community agencies providing services accurately report juvenile attendance and progress, with potential fines for falsification. Additionally, the bill repeals a previous statute related to minimum sentences for certain motor vehicle-related offenses committed by juveniles. These changes aim to provide more nuanced and rehabilitative approaches to juvenile justice while maintaining accountability for serious offenses.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1246&Year=2025&Initiative=false