Title: An act relating to correctional programs, facilities, and institutions on the grounds of a state hospital.

Brief Description: Restricting correctional facilities on the grounds of a state hospital.

Sponsors: Senators Carrell, Schoesler and Benson.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Human Services & Corrections: 2/24/05.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Staff: Fara Daun (786-7459)

Background: State hospitals are operated by the Department of Social and Health Services and house persons receiving evaluation and treatment for mental disorders, including persons found not guilty by reason of insanity. Some state hospitals have extensive grounds and unused buildings. The Department of Corrections (DOC) has jurisdiction over offenders in state prisons and supervises felony offenders and certain misdemeanor offenders in the community. It operates prisons, work release facilities, pre-release facilities, and community corrections facilities.

Summary of Bill: After the effective date of the act, DOC will not be permitted to locate, operate, or contract for the operation of any program, facility, or institution that serves any violent offenders on the grounds of a state hospital unless the program, facility, or institution existed on the effective date of the act.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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