Bill > SB5290

This bill allows individuals charged with certain controlled substance-related offenses in courts of limited jurisdiction to seek dismissal of their charges after completing a specific process. Under the proposed law, a person charged with drug possession (under specific Revised Code of Washington sections) can request charge dismissal if they undergo a certified substance use disorder assessment and successfully complete a court-approved treatment program. The assessment must consider the individual's criminal and substance use history and demonstrate a substance use disorder requiring treatment. If the person files their assessment report and proof of treatment completion before their readiness hearing, the court can dismiss the charges without prejudice if it finds that: the assessment appropriately evaluated the individual's history, the person completed the recommended treatment through a certified provider, and the interests of justice support dismissal. The bill also allows the court to potentially dismiss related non-possession charges under the same cause number, unless the prosecutor objects. The legislation aims to provide an alternative approach to handling drug-related offenses by emphasizing treatment and rehabilitation over punishment, recognizing that some individuals might benefit more from addressing underlying substance use issues than from criminal prosecution.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5290&Year=2025&Initiative=false