SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6548

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.

As of February 3, 2010

Title: An act relating to offenders on parole or probation.

Brief Description: Suspending the parole or probation of an offender who is charged with a new felony offense in certain conditions.

Sponsors: Senators Hargrove, Carrell, Stevens, Kauffman and Roach.

Committee Activity: Human Services & Corrections: 2/02/10.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Staff: Shani Bauer (786-7468)

Background: The Interstate Compact for Adult Offender Supervision is an agreement entered into between the states permitting supervision of offenders across state lines. Each state is bound by the terms of the Compact, which requires a state to supervise an offender if the offender meets certain criteria. The state receiving the offender for supervision must supervise the individual consistent with the supervision of other similar offenders sentenced in the receiving state.

Many offenders received by Washington for supervision are on a parole or probation system. Washington does not have the jurisdiction to revoke an offender's parole or probation if warranted. Applying Washington's unique sentencing laws to an offender on parole or probation can be confusing.

Prior to 1984 Washington had a parole system. There are still offenders in Washington who are on parole or who are in prison and may get out on parole at some point in the future. The parole board (now designated as the Indeterminate Sentence Review Board) may take a variety of actions when an offender violates the terms of his or her parole, including suspension of the person's parole pending the disposition of new criminal charges.

Summary of Bill: DOC may supervise an offender on supervision under the Interstate Compact who is on parole or probation consistent with the supervision of other offenders in Washington who are on parole. Specifically, if an offender is charged with a new felony offense, the offender's parole or probation may be suspended pending disposition of the criminal charges.

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: None.

Persons Testifying: No one.