SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6246

                    As of January 25, 2000

Title:  An act relating to penalty assessments for crimes committed before June 6, 1996.

Brief Description:  Making retroactive the increase in victim penalty assessments.

Sponsors:  Senators Costa, McCaslin, Kline, Long, Prentice, Zarelli, Fairley, Gardner, Thibaudeau, Heavey, Haugen, Kohl‑Welles, Winsley and Oke.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Judiciary:  2/4/2000.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY

Staff:  Aldo Melchiori (786-7439)

Background:  A victims' penalty assessment is imposed whenever a person is convicted of a crime, excluding specified motor vehicle crimes.  For felonies and gross misdemeanors, the assessment was raised from $100 to $500 by legislation that became effective June 6, 1996. The Washington Supreme Court held that the amendment applies prospectively to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the amendment.

Summary of Bill:  A victim's penalty assessment of $250 is imposed on persons convicted on or after June 6, 1996 for felonies or gross misdemeanors committed before that date.  It is specified that a finding of guilt is the triggering event for the assessment.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.