SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5326

                    As of February 5, 1999

Title:  An act relating to canine training by the department of corrections.

Brief Description:  Restricting canine training by the department of corrections.

Sponsors:  Senators Haugen, Hargrove, Long and Costa.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Human Services & Corrections:  2/5/99.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Staff:  Fara Daun (786-7459)

Background:  The Department of Corrections (DOC) staff members train dogs to detect narcotics both for internal use and for sale to law enforcement.  DOC trains dogs using a passive response model only.  The departments sells them to law enforcement agencies on a cost recovery basis.  DOC does not train aggressive response dogs.  DOC refers agencies seeking aggressive response dogs, or who need a dog before DOC can supply one, to a private vendor in Washington.

Summary of Bill:  DOC may provide canine training for its own internal needs.  It may not train dogs for sale to any other correctional or law enforcement agency in Washington or any other state.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 22, 1999.

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