Bill > SB6022

This bill aims to reform Washington's juvenile rehabilitation system by repealing policies that allowed for extended rehabilitation up to age 25, referred to as "JR-25," and eliminating community transition services. The legislation finds that these extended policies have been ineffective in rehabilitating young adults and have contributed to issues like overcrowding, violence, and contraband within juvenile facilities. It also highlights the significant cost difference between rehabilitating offenders in the Department of Children, Youth, and Families compared to the Department of Corrections. The bill amends various Revised Code of Washington (RCW) sections to adjust jurisdiction over juvenile offenses, revise sentencing guidelines, and modify provisions related to firearm possession and mandatory decline hearings for juveniles facing serious charges. Additionally, it clarifies the transfer of individuals convicted as adults for offenses committed as juveniles, generally limiting their confinement in juvenile facilities to age 21, with specific exceptions for certain serious offenses and circumstances. The bill also repeals several existing laws and uncodified sections related to juvenile rehabilitation and transition services.

Labor and Employment

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6022&Year=2025&Initiative=false