BILL REQ. #:  Z-0263.1 

Read first time 02/18/13.   Referred to Committee on Human Services & Corrections.

     AN ACT Relating to exemption of information contained in the department of corrections' security threat group database; and adding a new section to chapter 72.09 RCW.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 72.09 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) The special investigations services unit of the department may collect, evaluate, collate, and analyze data and specific investigative information concerning the existence, structure, activities, and operations of security threat groups, drugs, and violence within department facilities and the participants involved therein under the jurisdiction of the department.
     (2) Security threat group data must be located in a centralized database of the department and must be used to maintain the safety and security of offenders, staff, facilities, and the public. The data compiled may aid in addressing violence reduction, illegal activities, and identification of offender separation or protection needs, and may be used to assist law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in developing evidence for purposes of criminal prosecution upon request.
     (3) The security threat group database and all contents in the database are confidential and exempt from public disclosure under chapter 42.56 RCW.