Title: An act relating to the "chief for a day" program.

Brief Description: Concerning the "chief for a day" program.

Sponsors: Representatives Hurst, Loomis, Kelley, Kirby, Liias, Morrell, Green and Simpson; by request of Governor Gregoire.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/12/08, 97-0.

Committee Activity: Judiciary: 2/26/08, 2/29/08 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY

Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Kline, Chair; Tom, Vice Chair; McCaslin, Ranking Minority Member; Carrell, Hargrove, McDermott, Roach and Weinstein.

Staff: Dawn Noel (786-7472)

Background: The Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) was established in 1974. Its primary purpose is to provide basic law enforcement training, corrections training, and educational programs for criminal justice personnel, including commissioned officers, corrections
officers, fire marshals, and prosecuting attorneys.

Summary of Bill: The Legislature finds that the CJTC's participation in charitable work, such as the "Chief for a Day" program (program) that provides special attention to chronically ill children, advances the overall purposes of the CJTC by promoting positive relationships between law enforcement and the citizens of Washington.

The program is defined as one in which commissioners and staff partner with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, hospitals, and the community to provide a day of special attention to chronically ill children. Each child is selected and sponsored by a law enforcement agency. The event occurs one day, annually or every other year, and may occur on the grounds and in the facilities of the CJTC. The program may include any appropriate honoring of the child as a chief, such as a certificate swearing the child in as a chief, a badge, a uniform, and donated gifts such as games, puzzles, and art supplies.

The powers of the CJTC are expanded to include promoting positive relationships between law enforcement and citizens by authorizing commissioners and staff to participate in the program. The Executive Director of the CJTC must designate staff who may participate. In furtherance of this purpose, the CJTC may accept grants and gifts and use its public facilities for such purpose. All commissioners and staff who participate must comply with the state's public service ethics laws and regulations.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill would allow us to do the "Chief for a Day" program. Our membership fully supports this bill, including all sheriffs and police chiefs in Washington State. This bill is a great way to continue a tradition we've had for a number of years. The program shows police officers how to really be caregivers in our communities, and it's a great day for kids.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Michael Parsons, Criminal Justice Training Commission; Chief Mike Lasnier, Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs; Reid Weaver, Monroe Police Department.