Washington State has made progress in juvenile justice reform with Governor Inslee signing Substitute House Bill 2217, introduced by Rep. Julio Cortes (D-Everett).

This legislation changes the state’s approach to juvenile offenders, recognizing the delays in juvenile justice proceedings due to court backlogs from the pandemic. The bill focuses on rehabilitation and fairness, allowing courts to consider the offender’s age rather than the case filing date.

House Bill 2217 extends the jurisdiction of juvenile courts to include individuals aged 18 and older. This change allows the court to maintain jurisdiction over criminal proceedings for offenses committed before the individual turns 21.

The court can also extend jurisdiction over individuals accused of serious offenses committed at ages 16 or 17, with approval from all parties involved.

The bill includes provisions such as extended parole options for certain offenses, ensuring that rehabilitative efforts continue beyond a juvenile’s twenty-third birthday.

Discretionary decline hearings will now consider the offender’s age at the time of the offense, promoting fairness in the justice system.

Rep. Cortes described the bill as a step towards a more equitable and rehabilitative juvenile justice system. He stated that by expanding jurisdiction and focusing on rehabilitation, the legislation aims to provide every young person with the opportunity to thrive.