Bill > SB5268

This bill modifies Washington state law regarding community custody (a form of supervised release after imprisonment) by adding unlawful possession of a firearm under RCW 9.41.040 as a specific offense that automatically requires one year of community custody after sentencing. Previously, only certain firearms possession offenses, such as those committed by criminal street gang members, triggered this mandatory supervision period. The bill applies to individuals sentenced to the custody of the department for this firearms offense and requires courts to impose a one-year community custody term in addition to other sentence components. The changes are temporary, with Section 1 expiring on January 1, 2026, and Section 2 taking effect on the same date. Community custody involves supervision and monitoring of an offender after their release from prison, typically with conditions such as regular check-ins with a probation officer, restrictions on travel, and requirements to maintain employment or participate in rehabilitation programs. By mandating this supervision for unlawful firearm possession, the bill aims to reduce the likelihood of repeat offenses and support offender rehabilitation.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5268&Year=2025&Initiative=false