SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5185

                    As of January 20, 1995

Title:  An act relating to failure to appear at a court proceeding.

Brief Description:  Requiring that bail or bond be posted by persons who have previously been convicted of failure to appear at a court proceeding.

Sponsors:  Senators Roach, Smith, Hale, Rasmussen and Palmer.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Law & Justice:  1/23/95.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE

Staff:  Cynthia Runger (786-7717)

Background:  Any person charged with a crime other than a capital offense must be released, pending trial, on the person's own recognizance, with or without attached conditions.  However, if the court finds that such recognizance will not assure the accused's appearance or will otherwise unlawfully interfere with the administration of justice, the court must deny release without bail.

Summary of Bill:  A person who, during the previous 10 years, is convicted of any crime involving failure to appear at a court proceeding may not be released on his or her own personal recognizance.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 19, 1995.

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