SENATE BILL REPORT

EHB 1148

As of March 27, 2003

Title: An act relating to the interstate compact for juveniles.

Brief Description: Adopting the revised interstate compact for juveniles.

Sponsors: Representatives Dickerson, Delvin and O'Brien.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Children & Family Services & Corrections: 3/28/03.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Staff: Tony Rugel (786-7754)

Background: The current Interstate Compact on Juveniles was adopted in 1955. It allows states to cooperate in the supervision of juvenile offenders residing in states other than the original state of adjudication, and for the return of juveniles who have run away or escaped across state lines.

Concerns have been raised that the existing compact is outdated, does not provide a mechanism for resolving disputes between states, does not take into consideration the growth of juvenile issues, and has become inconsistent due to various amendments by individual states.

Summary of Bill: Adopting the compact makes Washington a compacting state and a voting member of the Interstate Commission. The commission is charged with promulgating the rules used to govern the compacting states, as well as the rules used in the day-to-day operation of the compact. The compact also contains enabling language and the establishment of a state council which will exercise oversight and advocacy concerning that state's participation in Interstate Commission activities.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect on July 1, 2004, or when the interstate compact for juveniles is adopted by 35 or more states, whichever occurs later.