No fixes on horizon for crowding crisis in WAs youth prisons

The Green Hill School juvenile detention center in Washington has been grappling with overcrowding for nearly two years, leading to unsafe conditions for both minors and staff. Despite the opening of a new facility in Aberdeen, lawmakers did not pass significant reforms during the recent legislative session, leaving the center on track to exceed its safe capacity of 180. Current population levels at Green Hill fluctuate between 220 and 240, with projections indicating a rise to 340 by 2026. Proposed legislation, including Senate Bill 5278 and Senate Bill 5296, aimed to reform the transfer of juveniles to adult prisons and divert youths from detention, but these efforts stalled due to partisan disagreements. Lawmakers earmarked funds for enhanced security at Green Hill and operations at the new facility, revealing some legislative intent to address the crisis.

However, the failure to pass meaningful reforms has left many frustrated, including Wilson, who emphasized the need to focus on preventative measures. The assistant secretary for juvenile rehabilitation's recent departure adds uncertainty to the agency's future direction. The ongoing overcrowding crisis reflects broader trends in juvenile crime and the state's approach to youth incarceration.