HOUSE BILL REPORT

SSB 6172

BYSenate Committee on Law & Justice (originally sponsored by Senators Kiskaddon, Talmadge, Bailey and Garrett)

Changing reporting requirements for witnesses of violent crimes and child abuse and assault.

House Committe on Judiciary

Majority Report:  Do pass.  (16)

      Signed by Representatives Armstrong, Chair; Crane, Vice Chair; Appelwick, Belcher, Brough, P. King, Lewis, Locke, Meyers, Moyer, Padden, Patrick, Schmidt, Scott, Wang and Wineberry.

House Staff:Charlie Gavigan (786-7110)

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY FEBRUARY 25, 1988

BACKGROUND:

A person who witnesses the preparation for or the commission of some crimes is required to report these acts as soon as possible.  These crimes are:  (1) violent crimes as defined in statute, (2) sexual offenses against children, or (3) assaults against children that appear likely to cause serious injury.

The witness must report the acts to the prosecuting attorney, law enforcement officials, medical personnel, or other public officials.

SUMMARY:

Child Protective Services is added to the list of persons or organizations that witnesses contact to report certain acts.  The witness must report the acts to any one of the listed persons or organizations.

Fiscal Note:      Not Requested.

House Committee ‑ Testified For:    None Presented.

House Committee - Testified Against:      None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony For:    None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony Against:      None Presented.