Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Early Learning & Human Services Committee |
SSB 6100
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. |
Brief Description: Updating the administration of the sexual assault grant programs.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections (originally sponsored by Senators Hargrove and Roach).
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/16/12
Staff: Linda Merelle (786-7092).
Background:
The Office of Crime Victims Advocacy (OCVA) within the Department of Commerce administers state general fund and federal grant programs to provide services to victims of sexual assault. Programs administered by the OCVA include both treatment and prevention services. These programs provide services for approximately 12,000 new victims of sexual assault each year. Over half of those who receive services are children. These programs ensure that every geographic county has a community sexual assault program that provides an array of services available at no cost and on a 24/7 basis to victims of sexual assault in their community.
Chapter 43.280 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) contains provisions related to community treatment services for victims of sexual assault which date back to 1979. Similarly, the Victims of Sexual Assault Act was enacted in 1979 and codified in Chapter 70.125 of the RCW. It contains provisions regarding a state plan for addressing sexual assault, statewide program services, financial assistance, and funding to community programs. In some instances, language in both chapters has become outdated or no longer reflects the work that is actually performed by the OCVA.
Summary of Bill:
References are updated to standardize and remove outdated or redundant language describing the OCVA's mission and activities providing services for victims of sexual assault. Language requiring formation of a peer review committee to advise the OCVA about eligibility for services is removed. New practice principles are articulated for professionals who work with sexual assault victims.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.