FINAL BILL REPORT

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.

C 29 L 12

Synopsis as Enacted

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).

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

House Committee on Early Learning & Human Services

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 OCVA include Sexual Assault Services, Victims of Crime Act, Sexual Assault Services Program, Rape Prevention and Education Program, and Community Health Block. These programs provide services for approximately 12,000 new victims of sexual assault each year and ensure that every geographic county has a community sexual assault program that provides an array of services available at no cost around the clock to victims of sexual assault in their community.

The Revised Code of Washington contains provisions related to services for victims of sexual assault that dates back to 1979. In some instances, language has become outdated or no longer reflects the work that is actually performed by OCVA.

Summary: Statuary references are updated to standardize and remove outdated or redundant language describing OCVA's mission and activities providing services for victims of sexual assault. Language requiring formation of a peer review committee to advise OCVA about eligibility for services is removed. New practice principles are articulated for professionals who work with sexual assault victims.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate

47

0

House

96

0

Effective:

June 7, 2012