Bill > HB1252

This bill modifies several laws related to pretrial release, focusing on enhancing judicial requirements and considerations when determining release conditions for defendants and juveniles. The bill requires judicial officers to provide more detailed written documentation when releasing individuals who have potentially posed significant challenges during arrest (such as attempting to elude police, engaging in foot pursuits, or requiring substantial law enforcement resources) or who are charged with violent offenses or firearm-related crimes. Specifically, judges must now document their rationale for releasing a person on personal recognizance or setting bail lower than recommended by prosecutors, and must explicitly explain how public safety and the defendant's court appearance will be ensured. The bill also expands the factors judges must consider when setting release conditions, including the defendant's firearms history, previous evasion attempts, and other characteristics that might indicate potential risk. For juveniles, similar provisions are added, requiring more detailed documentation and conditions when setting probation bonds. Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for home detention or electronic monitoring agencies to have real-time, 24/7 monitoring with immediate law enforcement dispatch when monitoring defendants awaiting trial for violent or sex offenses, ensuring stricter oversight and accountability in pretrial release situations.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1252&Year=2025&Initiative=false