SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1028

As Reported By Senate Committee On:

Children & Family Services & Corrections, April 4, 2003

Title: An act relating to a study by the institute for public policy to create a system to encourage investment in proven intervention and prevention programs for at-risk youth.

Brief Description: Studying programs for at-risk youth intervention.

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

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Children & Family Services & Corrections: 4/2/03, 4/4/03 [DPA].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Majority Report: Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators Stevens, Chair; Parlette, Vice Chair; Carlson, Deccio, Hargrove, McAuliffe and Regala.

Staff: Tony Rugel (786-7754)

Background: In May 2001, the Washington State Institute for Public Policy (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. The WSIPP research found, among other things, that: (a) certain programs, especially those designed for juvenile offenders, can improve the effectiveness of Washington's criminal justice system; (b) some programs studied do not lower criminality and have negative economic bottom lines; and (c) evaluations of the programs are necessary to determine if outcomes are being achieved in a cost-beneficial manner. The report did not address what changes were needed for the state to implement best practices or how to forecast caseloads, crime reduction, or savings as a result of implementing the programs.

Summary of Amended Bill: The Joint Legislative and Audit Review Committee (JLARC) must review and analyze research that identifies programs that can be implemented by local jurisdictions, are cost beneficial, and are effective at preserving families and reducing juvenile crime.

JLARC must also develop and report options regarding financial and other incentives that encourage local government investment in community based research, and proven preventative and early intervention programs that reduce juvenile crime and preserve families.

Amended Bill Compared to Substitute Bill: JLARC must review and analyze research that identifies programs that can be implemented by local jurisdictions, are cost beneficial, and are effective at preserving families and reducing juvenile crime.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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

Testimony For: None.

Testimony Against: None.

Testified: No one.