Criminal Justice (Victims' Rights)

SB 6083 modifies Washington state law to prevent courts from waiving restitution payments owed to postsecondary institutions (like public universities) when offenders claim inability to pay due to financial hardship. Specifically, it removes an exception allowing courts to relieve offenders of restitution obligations to schools if they are deemed indigent, ensuring such payments must be enforced regardless of the offender's financial situation. This bill directly affects individuals convicted of violent protests causing property damage at colleges or universities, requiring them to pay restitution for damages. The change applies to court-ordered restitution for criminal offenses resulting in harm to postsecondary institution property, as defined under RCW 28B.10.016. It does not impact restitution for other victims or peaceful protest-related cases.

HB 2005 makes it a crime to intentionally damage or steal electric vehicle (EV) charging stations or related infrastructure, with penalties increasing based on the damage value: a gross misdemeanor for under $1,000, a class C felony for $1,000-$5,000, and a class B felony for over $5,000. It requires offenders to pay restitution to station owners, allows victims to sue for up to $5,000 in damages plus legal fees, and directs additional fines to transportation funds. The law excludes accidental damage by utility workers and defines "electric vehicle charging station" to include related equipment and remote management systems. This bill directly affects vandals/thieves targeting EV infrastructure and protects station owners/operators.