HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

HB 1646

Title:An act relating to the indeterminate sentence review board.

Brief Description:Extending the existence of the indeterminate sentence review board.

Sponsors: Representatives Quall and Ballasiotes.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND CORRECTIONS

Staff:Yvonne Walker (786-7841)

Background:  The Indeterminate Sentence Review Board (ISRB) consists of up to seven members appointed by the Governor and ratified by the Legislature.  The Governor designates one of the board members to serve as chairperson.  Members of the board are prohibited from participating in any other business, profession, or hold a public office during their tenure on the board.

Today, a convicted offender receives a determinate sentence in Washington.  However, prior to July 1, 1984, an offender who committed a crime received a indeterminate sentence.   During that time span, an offender convicted by the Superior Court of Washington and sentenced to an institution was placed under the authority of the ISRB.

At least 750 felons in prison and 450 on parole remain under the supervision of the ISRB for release and continued supervision to the end of his or her maximum term, or until granted a final discharge from supervision of the board.  The Board establishes the minimum prison sentence, evaluates readiness for parole release, sets conditions of parole release and returns offenders to prison for violations of their conditions of release.

ISRB will cease to exist at midnight, June 30, 1998.

Summary:  Members of the board may participate in other business, professions, or hold public office with prior approval from the executive ethics board.

 The existence of the Indeterminate Sentence Review Board continues to operate for an additional 10 years.  The board will cease to exist on June 30, 2008.

Require the Exercise of Rule- Making Powers:  No

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 11, 1997.

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