FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1028

C 285 L 03

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Authorizing research to identify programs proven effective at preserving families and reducing crime committed by youth.

Sponsors: By House Committee on Juvenile Justice & Family Law (originally sponsored by Representatives Dickerson, Delvin, Kagi, O'Brien, Kenney and Upthegrove).

House Committee on Juvenile Justice & Family Law

Senate Committee on Children & Family Services & Corrections

Background:

The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee (JLARC) is a statutorily created committee of eight senators and eight representatives, equally divided between the two major political parties. The JLARC staff conducts performance audits, program evaluations, sunset reviews and other policy and fiscal studies. The JLARC may examine issues, hold hearings, make findings, report to the Legislature, and conduct any other business relating to the efficiency and effectiveness of state government.

The Washington State Institute for Public Policy (WSIPP) is a research organization created by the Legislature to provide nonpartisan research at legislative direction on issues of importance to Washington. In May 2001, the WSIPP published its report, The Comparative Costs and Benefits of Programs to Reduce Crime, which focused on the economics of various nationwide programs designed to reduce criminal behavior in adults and juveniles.

Summary:

The JLARC is required to, among other things, review and analyze research, including research conducted by the WSIPP, to identify cost-effective programs that preserve families and reduce juvenile crime. The JLARC must report on the costs, benefits, and outcomes of identified programs that local jurisdictions in the state have successfully implemented. The JLARC must also report options for financial and other incentives designed to encourage local government investment in cost-effective programs. Among the incentives that may be considered are those that reimburse local jurisdictions for a portion of the savings that accrue to the state. The JLARC must submit an interim report to the Legislature by September 1, 2004, and a final report by September 1, 2005.

Votes on Final Passage:

House 97  0

Senate 48  0    (Senate amended)

House 97  0    (House concurred)

Effective: July 27, 2003