SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5317

                    As of February 3, 1997

Title:  An act relating to inmate funds.

Brief Description:  Specifying the amount of inmate funds that are exempt from certain deductions.

Sponsors:  Senators Haugen, Long, Goings and Kohl.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Human Services & Corrections:  2/4/97.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Staff:  Andrea McNamara (786-7483)

Background:  As a result of legislation passed in 1995, the Department of Corrections (DOC) began deducting 35 percent of funds received by inmates from sources outside the institution, effective May 20, 1996. 

The deductions include 20 percent for costs of incarceration; 10 percent for mandatory savings to be distributed to offenders upon release; and 5 percent for crime victims compensation.

Also as a result of the 1995 legislation, offenders are required to pay several fees and assessments for services and items previously provided to them at no charge, including personal hygiene items, health care copayments, television cable fees, and recreation fees.

DOC estimates that the typical offender must now spend  approximately $8 per month to cover these new fees and assessments.

Summary of Bill:  The first $10 per month of funds received by an inmate, other than wages and gratuities, are exempt from the mandatory 35 percent deductions.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 28, 1997.

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