SB 5548-S - DIGEST
(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Finds that there is a need to consider statewide standards for adult and juvenile probation officers supervising adult misdemeanant and juvenile offenders.

Finds that, while probation officers are required to complete training and educational requirements provided by the criminal justice and training commission, currently there are no statewide standards for probation and no accreditation program in use. The adoption of statewide standards or an accreditation program for adult and juvenile probation officers may help to provide improved staff training and development, better defense against lawsuits through improved documentation, improved staff morale and professionalism, a safer environment for staff and offenders, and potentially reduced liability insurance costs.

Requests the Washington administrative office of the courts to convene and staff a work group to review alternatives and recommend statewide standards or an accreditation program for probation officers who supervise adult misdemeanant offenders.

Requests the work groups to report their findings and recommendations to the governor and the relevant committees of the legislature that deal with judiciary issues by December 1, 2008.

Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.