Commission supports bill to expand earned release time and add survivor-led pilot at WCCW

The Sensing Guideline Commission voted to support bill 1239 at its Jan. 16 special meeting, endorsing a package that would make earned release time uniformly available up to 33%, change eligibility for some sentence enhancements, and create a Department of Corrections peer-led survivor-and-recovery pilot at Washington Corrections Center for Women (WCCW).

Staff explained the major change is replacing the previous tiered earned-release percentages with a uniform 33% cap, and noted that the substitute language is available on the bill page. The bill also would make firearm, deadly-weapon and impaired-driving enhancements potentially eligible for earned release time. The funding and pilot program language includes an intent section that emphasizes trauma-informed, survivor-led supports.

Christy Knudson, identified in the meeting as representing the Department of Corrections, clarified that the 2026 iteration is stakeholder-driven and not a DOC request bill. She said DOC will submit written testimony taking an "other" position while highlighting the operational positives: applying a 33% rate to earned time, the equity impacts of adjustments to enhancements, and support for expanding peer-led programming in institutions.

Commissioner Dr. Matthews moved the commission to support the substitute; Miss Brandes seconded, and the motion carried.

Why it matters: proponents said a uniform earned-release percentage will simplify administration and may reduce bargaining over early-release allowances in plea negotiations; victim-services advocates cautioned that victim-notification requirements and funding are critical. One commissioner, speaking for victim services, said current victim services funding is far below need and urged support for additional victim resources if the bill is endorsed.

Next steps: SGC staff will file the commission's support position and monitor upcoming hearings and substitute-language updates.