SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 1919
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 of March 23, 2009
Title: An act relating to drug court funding.
Brief Description: Operating and administering a drug court program.
Sponsors: House Committee on Human Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Kagi, Goodman, Pedersen, Rodne, Roberts, Hinkle, Dickerson, Moeller, Santos and Wood).
Brief History: Passed House: 3/11/09, 96-0.
Committee Activity: Judiciary: 3/24/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY |
Staff: Kim Johnson (786-7472)
Background: Drug courts are pre-adjudication programs that provide eligible defendants with an opportunity to receive drug treatment instead of incarceration. The defendant enters into a "contract" with the court to abide by certain conditions, waives the right to a trial, and stipulates to the facts in the police report. Upon completion of treatment, the charges are dismissed. If the defendant fails to complete the program requirements, the defendant is sentenced on the charges.
The Criminal Justice Treatment Account was created in 2002. Monies in the account are limited to the following purposes: (1) substance abuse treatment and treatment support services for offenders with an addiction, against whom charges have been filed by a prosecuting attorney in Washington; (2) provision of drug and alcohol treatment services and treatment support services for nonviolent offenders within a drug court program; and (3) operation of the Integrated Crisis Response and Intensive Case Management pilots during the 2007-2009 biennium.
Summary of Bill: Funds in the Criminal Justice Treatment Account may be used to support the operation and administration of the drug court programs. Not more than 10 percent of the funds received by a county or group of counties participating in a regional agreement must be spent to support the operation and administration of a drug court program.
The authorization to expend funds for the operation and administration of a drug court program expires June 30, 2013.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.