SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1785

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As Reported by Senate Committee On:

Transportation, March 26, 2009

Title: An act relating to the Washington state patrol chief for a day program.

Brief Description: Concerning the chief for a day program.

Sponsors: Representatives Armstrong, O'Brien, Condotta and Kelley; by request of Washington State Patrol.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/23/09, 97-0.

Committee Activity: Transportation: 3/26/09 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Haugen, Chair; Marr, Vice Chair; Swecker, Ranking Minority Member; Becker, Benton, Berkey, Delvin, Jarrett, Kastama, Kauffman, Kilmer and Ranker.

Staff: Dory Nicpon (786-7321)

Background: For several years, law enforcement agencies within Washington have individually and collectively hosted programs, known as "chief for a day," that recognize and give honorary chief or deputy status to chronically ill children.

Chapter 69 of the Laws of 2008 authorized the commissioners and staff of the Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) to participate in a chief for a day program.

Summary of Bill: The Legislature finds that participation by the Washington State Patrol (WSP) in charitable work promotes positive relationships between law enforcement and Washington citizens.

WSP is authorized to participate in a chief for a day program, which is defined as a program in which WSP partners with other law enforcement agencies, hospitals, and the community to provide a day of special attention to chronically ill children. The program may include honoring a participating child as a chief, and providing the child with a certificate, badge, uniform, and donated gifts.

WSP may accept grant funds and gifts, and may use its public facilities for the chief for a day program. The participation of WSP in the chief for a day program must conform with laws governing ethics in public service.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill allows WSP to participate in a special charitable activity.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Captain Jeff DeVere, WSP.