FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 6337

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

C 116 L 10

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Concerning inmate savings accounts.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections (originally sponsored by Senators Regala, Carrell, Hargrove and Brandland).

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

House Committee on Human Services

Background: When an inmate receives funds while incarcerated, with limited exception, those funds are subject to a 10 percent deduction to be placed in the inmate's personal inmate savings account. Funds in the account, together with any accrued interest, are only available to the inmate:

  1. at the time of the inmate's release from confinement;

  2. prior to the inmate's release from confinement in order to secure approved housing; or

  3. when the Secretary of the Department of Corrections (DOC) determines that an emergency exists for the inmate.

Except for at the time of release when the inmate is entitled to all the funds in his or her account, the Secretary must determine the amount of funds to be made available to the inmate.

Summary: During incarceration, funds in a personal inmate savings account may be made available to an inmate to pay for accredited postsecondary educational expenses. Prior to release, inmate savings funds may be used for department approved reentry activities that promote successful community reintegration. The Secretary must establish guidelines for the release of funds from an account giving consideration to the inmate's need for resources at the time of his or her release from confinement.

Obsolete language requiring DOC to expand correctional industries and report by stated deadlines is removed.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate

47

0

House

96

0

Effective:

July 1, 2010