Inslee announces plan for new juvenile rehabilitation facility and previews possible legislative proposals

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Washington state’s juvenile rehabilitation (JR) system has been noted in recent years for its innovative, trauma-informed education and therapeutic programming. But 2024 has brought significant challenges. The state’s JR population is increasing, including a 60% increase in young people at Green Hill School in Chehalis since 2023. The resulting overcrowding at certain facilities has created unsafe conditions and reduced the ability for young men to receive services.

Gov. Jay Inslee and leaders from the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families today previewed a proposal they’ll send to legislators in January to address the short- and long-term challenges facing JR, including urgently reducing overcrowding at Green Hill School.

Read the full story on Gov. Jay Inslee's Medium

Gov. Jay Inslee speaks at a podium flanked by state lawmakers and agency leaders.
Gov. Jay Inslee, lawmakers, agency leaders, and community stakeholders convened on Monday to announce a new DCYF-run juvenile rehabilitation facility adjacent to Stafford Creek Correctional Facility in Aberdeen intended to reduce overcrowding at the Green Hill School in Chehalis.