WA SB5278

Establishes "rated bed capacity" standards for juvenile rehabilitation institutions requiring single occupancy rooms, 10% of beds reserved for intensive management and flexibility, and adequate bathroom, education, and recreation space

Authorizes the secretary to reduce institution populations when they exceed 105% of rated bed capacity by transferring individuals to community transition services, community facilities, or Department of Corrections work release programs (for those over 21 and within 18 months of release)

Allows transfer of juveniles convicted as adults from juvenile facilities to adult corrections if they pose a continuing serious safety threat, are over 21 (or over 18 with 3+ years served) and consistently refuse rehabilitation programming, or if facility populations exceed 105% capacity

Creates voluntary transfer option for individuals over 18 to move to Department of Corrections custody, with written information on placement options, counsel consultation, 7-day reconsideration period, and one-time option to return within 12 months

Enables early release by Department of Corrections for individuals whose earned release date is within 6 months of their 25th birthday, provided they are not high risk to reoffend and have no serious infractions